Rafael Galan - 1923
Rafael Galan - 1923
Details
Details
Overview
Overview
Video overview
More details about the guitar
About the luthier
Rafael Galán was born in Málaga and later worked for many years in Buenos Aires where he established his own workshop. Although fewer instruments by him have survived compared to makers of larger schools, his work occupies a meaningful place within the early twentieth century tradition of Spanish inspired guitar building. His instruments often show a clear and confident understanding of the Torres lineage and they reveal a maker with a sensitive ear for resonance and a refined sense of proportion. Surviving examples demonstrate a lyrical and intimate voice that reflects the aesthetics of the period and the warm character associated with guitars built in Spain and in South America during those years.
About the guitar
This guitar from 1923 is a remarkable witness of its time. It is built in the traditional manner with a spruce top and walnut back and sides, all finished with French polish. The instrument weighs only 1335 grams which gives it an immediate sense of lightness and openness. The antique tuning machines function well and contribute to the historic charm of the guitar. The overall workmanship reveals a builder with great attention to musicality and with a desire to create an instrument that breathes freely.
The sound is soft, calm and deeply resonant. The guitar responds with an airy and warm presence that feels comforting and expressive at the same time. The resonance unfolds with a gentle bloom and the sustain is surprisingly long for an instrument of this age. The guitar feels alive under the hands and reveals a mature character shaped by more than a century of natural ageing. The balance is steady and the instrument speaks easily in every register. It invites the player to explore colours, phrasing and a flowing cantabile line. This is not only a historical object but a musical partner that conveys the atmosphere and poetry of its era.
Condition
The guitar is in very good condition considering its age. There is a small glued crack on the side which is stable and does not require cleats. The instrument shows signs of careful use and the wear on the lower bout from the right arm is visible but fully functional. There are no structural issues that affect playability or sound.
While this one is sold, these are ready for you
-
Classical Guitars
The classical guitar, with its soft nylon strings and characteristic timbre, has become a symbol of chamber music, Spanish tradition, and concert repertoire. Its modern form was shaped by Antonio de Torres in the 19th century, setting the standard for the body, fan bracing, and the 65-centimeter scale length that are still used today. Instruments in this category open up a rich palette from the refined Romantic miniatures of Tárrega to the majestic concertos of Rodrigo. Here you will find guitars that preserve historical continuity and at the same time inspire new interpretations.Look all products of the collection -
Karel Dedain - 2024 - Arias
Price: 8.394,96 €Sale price 8.394,96 € Price:Unit price per Tax free (0% US)0 €Save: -8.394,96 €Luthier: Karel DedainConstruction Type: Traditional -
Siccas Luthiers - Creation Doubletop Cedar
Price: 2.260,50 €Sale price 2.260,50 € Price:Unit price per Tax free (0% US)0 €Save: -2.260,50 €Manufacturer: Siccas LuthiersConstruction Type: Double TopConstruction Type: Double-Top Guitars -
ReservedAdrian Heinzelmann - 2026
Price on requestReservedLuthier: Adrian HeinzelmannConstruction Type: Traditional -
Carsten Kobs - 2016 Double Top
Price: 17.990 €Sale price 17.990 € Price:Unit price per Tax free (0% US)0 €Save: -17.990 €Luthier: Carsten KobsConstruction Type: Double-Top Guitars -
Zbigniew Gnatek - 2025 Lattice
Price: 11.990 €Sale price 11.990 € Price:Unit price per Tax free (0% US)0 €Save: -11.990 €Luthier: Zbigniew GnatekConstruction Type: Lattice -
ReservedPhilip Woodfield - 2008 Lattice
Price: 9.990 €Sale price 9.990 € Price:Unit price per Tax free (0% US)0 €Save: -9.990 €ReservedLuthier: Philip WoodfieldConstruction Type: Lattice -
Pete Beer - 2026 Cir-Mheala No. 114
Price: 7.134,45 €Sale price 7.134,45 € Price:Unit price per Tax free (0% US)0 €Save: -7.134,45 €Luthier: Pete BeerConstruction Type: Double-Top Guitars -
Jesus Bellido - 2026 Opus 133 Alma Aurea
Price: 5.033,61 €Sale price 5.033,61 € Price:Unit price per Tax free (0% US)0 €Save: -5.033,61 €ReservedLuthier: Jesus BellidoConstruction Type: Traditional -
Oreste Lohs - 2026 No. 24
Price: 5.990 €Sale price 5.990 € Price:Unit price per Tax free (0% US)0 €Save: -5.990 €Luthier: Oreste LohsConstruction Type: Traditional -
Michele Della Giustina - 2025 Double Top No. 438
Price: 8.990 €Sale price 8.990 € Price:Unit price per Tax free (0% US)0 €Save: -8.990 €Luthier: Michele Della GiustinaConstruction Type: Double-Top Guitars
