Description
Hermanos Conde 1998 “Paco de Lucía Special” – A Masterpiece of a Flamenco Guitar with Legendary Heritage and with Paco de Lucía’s Signature
Hermanos Conde is one of the most respected names in flamenco guitar making, carrying a tradition of excellence that has influenced generations of musicians. Legendary players like Sabicas, Paco de Lucía, Pepe Habichuela, Niño Josele, Tomatito, and Moraito have all relied on these instruments for their unique sound. For those who admire the unmistakable tone of Paco de Lucía, a Conde guitar is more than just an instrument—it’s a direct connection to the history and soul of flamenco.
The Conde brothers, Faustino, Julio, and Mariano, inherited their craft from Domingo Esteso, one of Spain’s most celebrated luthiers. After his passing, they continued his legacy under the name Sobrinos de Domingo Esteso, refining their style and advancing the art of flamenco guitar making. By the 1960s, their innovations led to instruments with deep, resonant basses and clear, expressive trebles—qualities that captured the attention of a young Paco de Lucía. Moving away from Ramírez guitars, he embraced Conde as his primary choice, shaping the sound of modern flamenco and cementing these guitars as the gold standard in the genre.
This 1990 model, created in tribute to Paco de Lucía, is a rare and highly sought-after instrument. It bears the signatures of both Paco de Lucía and the Conde workshop on the label, adding to its collectible value. The cedar top and rosewood back and sides closely resemble the maestro’s own guitar, offering a rich and dynamic tonal palette. With a 664 mm scale length and 52 mm nut width, the guitar provides both power and precision, ensuring a comfortable and responsive playing experience. The action at the 12th fret is set at 2.7 mm on the low E string and 2.1 mm on the high e string, striking the perfect balance between ease of playability and crisp articulation.
Tonally, this guitar is truly remarkable. The attack is fast and direct, with clear, percussive trebles and deep, resonant basses. The sound is fiery and bold yet retains a lyrical warmth, responding effortlessly to changes in dynamics. Played gently, it reveals a world of subtle overtones and nuance. When pushed, it delivers a powerful, rhythmic bite, making it ideal for traditional flamenco techniques. This wide expressive range is a defining characteristic of only the finest handcrafted instruments.
Despite its age, the guitar remains in excellent condition, with only minor signs of use that add to its authenticity and character. Its combination of masterful craftsmanship, historical importance, and connection to one of the greatest flamenco musicians of all time makes it a truly extraordinary find. Whether for a performer, collector, or passionate flamenco enthusiast, this instrument captures the essence of Spanish guitar-making at its highest level.