Casa Gonzalez 1915 Classical Guitar

Casa Gonzalez 1915 classical guitar – a stunning handmade guitar from one of the most important and influential Spanish workshops of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The esteemed Madrid-based luthier Francisco Gonzalez was a near contemporary of the legendary Antonio de Torres, yet he developed his own distinctive style that garnered immense acclaim during his lifetime. Renowned for his craftsmanship, Gonzalez received numerous prizes and medals at various exhibitions, and he is celebrated as the mentor of both Jose Ramirez I and his brother Manuel Ramirez.

Despite his prolific output, few of Gonzalez’s instruments have survived to the present day, much like those of his contemporary Vicente Arias. Following Gonzalez’s passing in 1879, his legacy continued under the stewardship of his son-in-law, Enrique Romans Papell, initially operating as “Viuda e Hijos de Francisco González” and later as “Casa Gonzalez,” which remained active until the 1940s.

This Casa Gonzalez 1915 classical guitar exemplifies the exquisite artistry of the Casa Gonzalez workshop. It was built around 1915. It features a solid spruce top paired with rosewood back and sides, showcasing both beauty and tonal excellence. With a scale length of 648 mm and a nut width of 50 mm, this guitar’s generous body size contributes to its noble, concert-quality sound.

This Casa Gonzalez 1915 classical guitar is in restored condition with some repaired craccks and some refinished areas. All is stable and the guitar plays great with a low action and a straight neck.

This Casa Gonzalez 1915 classical guitar is a true master-grade instrument, crafted for professional use. It boasts a strong, authoritative voice with an exceptional balance between singing highs and resonant lows. Its dynamic range is impressive, offering perfect playability that facilitates effortless expression.

The tone is thick yet clear, imbued with a warm, mysterious, and moody quality. The sound is characterized by controlled layers of overtones stacked upon a crystal-clear fundamental, producing an almost cathedral-like presence that delivers ample power for any concert hall setting.

This guitar is, by all accounts, a rare and historically significant piece, embodying the legacy of one of the most influential Spanish workshops of its era. It is not only a great-sounding and playing instrument but also a testament to the rich tradition of classical guitar craftsmanship.