José Ramirez I – ca. 1895

Description

The Ramirez dynasty is one of the oldest and most renowned in the history of the classical guitar. Its origins date back to José Ramirez I (1858-1923) in 1882 and span five generations of luthiers. The Madrid-based workshop was highly influential and its legacy in relation to the classical guitar is undisputed. However, José Ramirez I not only passed on his skills and passion to his family members, but also taught a considerable number of at the time talented and now famous guitar makers such as Enrique Garcia, Julian Gomez Ramirez, Antonio Pascual Viudes and possibly his brother Manuel Ramirez.

The signature instrument of José Ramirez I was the so-called ‘Guitarra de Tablao’, a guitar with a slightly larger body than was common at the time, designed for strong sound projection. This instrument was most suitable for the traditional Spanish music of the period, and the sound of the ‘tablao’ guitar fully embodies the Spanish tonal characteristic of the turn-of-the-century era. This model was available in a variety of decoration levels and timbers, from very sober to richly ornamented.

This wonderful ‘tablao’ guitar was made around 1895. With its rich decoration, wide rosette, elaborate purfling, and particularly carved bridge, it was one of the top models at the time. Its condition is amazing and admirable considering its age. The top has only one repaired crack running along the middle brace, back and sides are in splendid condition, and there is one repair to the back of the head. The varnish was probably refreshed or redone, all French polished with shellac in the traditional way. The beautiful tuning machines still work perfectly and have lovely mother of pearl buttons.

Sound wise, this guitar with 7-fan bracing has excellent liveliness and power. When playing, the entire body vibrates intensely and gives the guitarist pleasant feedback. Especially the trebles stand out with their presence and sustain. Overall, this is a one-of-a-kind guitar in fantastic condition suitable for active players and collectors alike.