Brian Cohen - 1981 Lute 8-course No. 116
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Overview
Overview
About the luthier
Brian Cohen is a highly respected South African-born luthier who began his career in 1972 and has since become a defining figure in the world of early plucked instruments. After relocating to the UK in 1974, he developed a close working relationship with the legendary David Rubio. Although their planned apprenticeship did not materialize, Cohen became one of Rubio’s key collaborators, crafting many of his guitars and lutes during Rubio’s later years. His dedication to historically informed instrument making took form in London’s Early Music Centre, where Cohen contributed to the revival of authentic lute construction. Over the decades, he has built and restored hundreds of instruments, winning accolades including a Crafts Council Award and a Silver Medal at the Manchester International Cello Festival. Today, he continues to work from his workshop in Guildford, upholding the finest traditions of European lutherie with meticulous care and artistic insight.
About the lute
This elegant 8-course lute, built in 1981 by Brian Cohen, exemplifies his deep understanding of historical instrument making. The top is made of finely grained spruce, providing clarity and resonance ideal for the repertoire of the early Baroque and Renaissance periods. The back and sides are crafted from beautifully figured Indian rosewood, lending the instrument not only visual warmth but also rich, sonorous depth. The body’s graceful curves and balanced weight make it both visually refined and a pleasure to play.
Condition
This instrument is in excellent condition, showing only minimal signs of use. There is one distinct scratch behind the bridge that is purely superficial and does not impact the instrument’s structure or acoustics. The lute has been exceptionally well maintained and remains fully concert-ready; an outstanding choice for both professional performance and serious collectors.
| Luthier: | Brian Cohen |
| Construction year: | 1981 |
| Construction type: | Traditional |
| Top: | Spruce |
| Back and sides: | Indian rosewood |
| Finish: | French polish |
| Air body frequency: | B |
| Scale: | 650 mm |
| Nut: | 77 mm |
| Weight: | 1180 grams |
| Tuners: | Pegs |
| Condition: | Excellent |
| Case: | Hardshell |
Details about GPSR:
Lute
Brian Cohen
Siccas Guitars GmbH, Roonstr. 31, 76137 Karlsruhe, Germany, www.siccasguitars.com, info@siccasguitars.com
Note: For antique guitars, the GPSR does not apply.
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