Bottom sliding away from top? Is this a big deal? (picture)

From what I understand, yes.

 

Hi GJ,

It's hard to tell from the angle of your pic, but possible that the glue is starting to give way near or at the bottom block. I'd recommend taking off the tension and dealing with this before the separations get any worse. Even if it's just a seam, it'll only get bigger and possibly morph into a structural problem....

Cheers,

Paul

 

There must me more loose than just what we see, otherwise the rib can't properly fit on the top. (The path of the edge of the paint on the top seems longer than the rib.)

 

Even if the block is separating that's not that awful a repair, especially if the top is plywood. Carved tops are less flexible but it should still be doable without removing the rest of the top and running up the bill.

Experienced luthiers tend to be crafty folks.

 

I don't think anyone needs to see it at any other angle. It just needs to go on to the operating table of someone who can glue the top back. Not a difficult job.