Braun & Hauser – ca. 1900-1906

Description

Hermann Hauser® I holds an outstanding status as a German luthier among guitar makers worldwide. He took over the instrument workshop of his father Josef Hauser® when the latter was still in charge of the music publishing house. Hermann Hauser® I specialised in the construction of lutes and guitars, but also remained faithful to zither making. In the context of the guitaristic development in Bavaria, Hermann Hauser® I built a large number of different guitars, especially the Viennese models and the Munich models in manifold designs, but always with the utmost precision. The tierz, prim and the very rare quintbass guitars by Hermann Hauser® I are of the highest quality. To this day, these instruments inspire and delight guitarists all over the world. Due to his exceptional ability, Hermann Hauser® I developed technical, patented innovations in the construction of guitar tops and body-neck joints. The Spanish virtuosos Miguel Llobet and Andres Segovia became aware of Hermann Hauser® I’s guitar building skills at the beginning of the 20th century and played on his guitars.

This important guitar was built at the very beginning of the twentieth century in the “Braun & Hauser” workshop in Munich. This workshop was the result of the merging of Josef Hauser’s and Mr. Braun’s workshops, both purchased by A. Steigenberger around 1900. Hermann Hauser® I, who was already working in his father’s workshop, stayed in the company as the two workshops gathered and became the foreman until 1908. This wonderful guitar, in extremely well-preserved condition, comes with an original letter from Hermann Hauser® III, detailing his opinion of the provenance of this instrument and his doubtless attribution to the hand of Hermann Hauser® I.

In his letter, he writes the following: on the basis of the construction characteristics, I personally assume that this “Braun & Hauser” guitar could be identified from the hand of Hermann Hauser® I, as it reflects unmistakable characteristics in the interior of the guitar.

This guitar’s sound is absolutely fantastic, with impressive liveliness, projection, and quality of tone. It is simply wonderful to play. With only one repaired crack on the soundboard, its condition is outstanding, and it is an overall gem.

Watch the presentation video of this special guitar below, where you will find a lot of additional information about its playability and sound.