David Rubio - 1967 - Lute 8-course No. 138
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Overview
Overview
About the luthier
David "José" Rubio is widely regarded as one of the most important and versatile luthiers of the 20th century. Originally a flamenco guitarist, Rubio developed a passion for instrument making during his time in New York, where he opened his first workshop in 1963. His encounter with the legendary Julian Bream that same year marked the beginning of a close friendship and long-standing collaboration. Bream played several Rubio guitars and lutes, including a 1966 guitar used in the iconic recording “Julian Bream and his Friends” (1968) and a 1967 lute featured on four albums, most notably “The Lute Music of John Dowland” (1976). In 1967, Rubio returned to England, initially setting up his workshop in Bream’s residence in Semley, before establishing his own near Oxford in 1969. Over the years, Rubio expanded his expertise to include not only classical and flamenco guitars, but also lutes, vihuelas, theorboes, baroque guitars, viols, and harpsichords. In the 1980s, he relocated his workshop to Cambridge, where he continued to build instruments until his death in 2000.
About the lute
This exquisite 1967 lute by David Rubio, No. 138, is a superb eight-course instrument, with two single courses and six double courses. Designed with versatility in mind, it is perfectly suited for both baroque and romantic repertoire. The instrument is fully concert-ready and embodies the best of Rubio’s craftsmanship and tonal ideals.
Its body features an eye-catching alternating pattern of Indian rosewood and maple ribs, each segment of rosewood followed by one of maple, creating a striking “striped” effect that extends all the way into the neck, enhancing both the aesthetic and the structural unity of the instrument. This intricate back design not only adds visual drama but also reflects Rubio’s dedication and commitment.
Condition
This instrument is in excellent condition, showing only minimal signs of use. The structural integrity is flawless, and there are no cracks or repairs. It has been very well preserved over the decades, making it not only a highly playable lute but also a valuable collector's item.
| Luthier: | David Rubio |
| Construction year: | 1967 |
| Construction type: | Traditional |
| Top: | Spruce |
| Back and sides: | Rosewood |
| Finish: | French polish |
| Air body frequency: | A # / B |
| Scale: | 650 mm |
| Nut: | 83 mm |
| Weight: | 1280 grams |
| Tuners: | Pegs |
| Condition: | Excellent |
| Case: | Hardshell |
Details about GPSR:
Lute
David Rubio
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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