Gaetano Guadagnini 1827

19th Century

Top Spruce
Back and Sides Fruitwood
Fingerboard Ebony
Width at nut 44 mm
Scale length 64 cm

A rare instrument from this guitar making member of a highly important family of Italian luthiers. This model is quite different to the instruments of Spain, England and France from this era. The overall body shape is relatively large but the sides are quite narrow - one can see the violin making influence. Interior strutting is minimal and the top has a domed profile to give strength in its absence. The frets are the original ivory. For an instrument of this era the volume and tonal colours are really quite amazing. John Williams has recently recorded the Giuliani concerto with a Gaetano Guadagnini.