David Rubio - 1968 - No. 149 Baroque Lute 13 Courses
David Rubio - 1968 - No. 149 Baroque Lute 13 Courses
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 trained as a flamenco guitarist, Rubio developed his passion for instrument making during his time in New York, where he opened his first workshop in 1963. That same year, he met Julian Bream, initiating a long-standing friendship and collaboration. Bream played several Rubio guitars and lutes, including a 1966 guitar used in the album “Julian Bream and his Friends” and a 1967 lute featured in recordings such as “The Lute Music of John Dowland” (1976). In 1967, Rubio returned to England, first working from Bream’s home in Semley, and later opening his own workshop near Oxford. He went on to build not only guitars but also lutes, vihuelas, theorboes, baroque guitars, viols, and harpsichords. In the 1980s, Rubio relocated to Cambridge, where he continued his work until his passing in 2000.
About the lute
This exceptional 1968 baroque lute, No. 149, is a 13-course instrument crafted by David Rubio. It reflects Rubio’s mastery of historical instruments and is a perfect choice for repertoire ranging from the High Baroque to the late French and German schools. The scale lengths are designed for optimal string tension and clarity: 660 mm (courses 1–10), 710 mm (11th), 760 mm (12th), and 810 mm (13th).
The back is crafted from beautifully flamed maple ribs, offering a visually striking and historically authentic appearance. The entire instrument is thoughtfully proportioned and aesthetically refined, with Rubio’s unmistakable attention to detail throughout. Its tone is warm and resonant, with excellent response and clarity across all registers, making it a highly satisfying and inspiring instrument for both solo performance and ensemble work.
Condition
This instrument is in excellent structural condition. There are some light scratches on the top that are purely aesthetic and consistent with careful use over time. The maple back and ribs are beautifully preserved, showing off their vivid grain and elegant patterns. A rare find in this condition from one of the most iconic luthiers of the 20th century.
Watch the presentation video of this particular instrument below, where you will find a lot of additional information about its playability and sound.
| Luthier: | David Rubio |
| Construction year: | 1961 |
| Construction type: | Traditional |
| Top: | Spruce |
| Back and sides: | Maple |
| Finish: | French polish |
| Scale: | 660 mm |
| Nut: | 91 mm |
| Weight: | 1650 grams |
| Tuners: | Pegs |
| Condition: | Excellent |
| Case: | Without case |
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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