Carl-Hermann Schäfer – 2020 “Bouchet”

Description

Carl Hermann Schäfer started making guitars in 1966. He did his apprenticeship under the guidance of master guitar maker Ernest Köröskeny and later studied under master guitar maker Dieter Hopf. After having worked in Hopf’s workshop from 1971 to 1994, he opened his own in Oberneisen and moved to Niederbrechen, Germany, five years later. He has focused on the craft of making the most wonderful replicas one could ever wish for. These instruments are not only extremely well built, but also offer a very authentic sound of master instruments from the past.

This magnificent guitar created in 2020 is a masterpiece of guitar making. Aesthetically inspired by the work of Robert Bouchet, it reveals Carl Hermann Schäfer’s immense experience in fine guitar making and is remarkable in every detail. At first glance, it seems as if one is holding an original instrument by the Parisian master. The spruce top is wonderfully patinated, the detailed rosette is faithfully reproduced, the Rodgers tuning machines are replicas of the originals, and the flamed maple of the back and sides presents a beautiful honey color. Upon closer inspection, a small hairline crack can be seen on the top on the right side of the fingerboard. According to Carl Hermann Schäfer’s own statement, it was visible from the very beginning. Nevertheless, the 50-year-old soundboard was chosen by him because of its properties, and since two crossbeams run under the spot inside, it is therefore structurally stable.

All the tenderness and charm of the sound of this guitar are unique. The timbre is rich and intense, with remarkable sustain and consistency. Also noteworthy is the low string action, which provides great playing comfort. All of these components combine to create an exceptional guitar, and the question of whether this guitar belongs in a museum or on stage is still open, with the answer most likely being both.