José Luis Romanillos - 2004 No. 818 ''La Sonrisa''
José Luis Romanillos - 2004 No. 818 ''La Sonrisa''
Details
Details
Overview
Overview
Video overview
More details about the guitar
About the luthier
José Luis Romanillos Vega (1932–2022) is regarded as one of the most influential luthiers of the twentieth century. Born in Madrid and trained as a cabinetmaker, he built his first guitar in London in 1961, later establishing his workshop in Semley, England, with the encouragement of Julian Bream. His instruments are known for their profound lyricism, refined balance, and unmistakable aesthetic language. Romanillos' quest for the elusive “Spanish sound” has inspired generations of builders and musicians alike. Recognized globally, he was hailed by the Daily Mail as “the Stradivari of the guitar” and by Sei Corde magazine as “the most important living stringed instrument maker” of his time. Beyond building, he was a teacher, historian, and co-author of the reference work “The Vihuela de Mano and the Spanish Guitar.”
About the guitar
Number 818, built in 2004 and named “La Sonrisa” — meaning “The Smile” — reflects José Luis Romanillos’ deep artistic identity and meticulous craftsmanship. As expected from this revered maker, every detail of the guitar, from the exquisitely composed rosette to the delicate headstock and bridge decoration, shows extraordinary refinement. The instrument radiates clarity, warmth, and elegance — visually and tonally.
Its tonal character is deeply poetic, with a singing sustain and exceptional balance across all registers. The sound is intimate yet vibrant, projecting a rich palette of color with remarkable consistency in every position on the fingerboard. Trebles unfold with graceful clarity, while the basses retain a warm, rounded presence that never overwhelms. The overall voice is unified and open, offering both subtlety and depth. There’s a natural resonance that breathes through the top, and every note seems to carry a quiet emotional weight — qualities that define Romanillos’ most celebrated instruments. Though his guitars share a recognizable tonal identity, each remains singular. “La Sonrisa” possesses its own expressive soul, shaped by both name and sound.
Condition
This 2004 guitar is in excellent condition. It shows slight signs of careful use and normal wear. There is one clean, well-executed hairline crack next to the bridge, secured internally with a cleat. The repair is stable and unobtrusive. The instrument retains its original French polish and tuners, and remains structurally sound and fully concert-ready.
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