Description
Hermanos Conde 1990 “Paco de Lucía Special” – A Remarkable Flamenco Guitar with Paco de Lucía’s Signature
When it comes to iconic flamenco guitars, the name Hermanos Conde – Sobrinos de Esteso stands unrivaled.
Legends like Sabicas, Paco de Lucía, Pepe Habichuela, Niño Josele, Tomatito, and Moraito, among countless others, have chosen to perform with Hermanos Conde guitars. For those who admire the distinctive sound of Paco de Lucía, owning one of these guitars becomes an aspiration.
Hermanos Conde is not just another name in guitar craftsmanship—they have shaped the very history of flamenco music. The story began with the three brothers, Faustino, Julio, and Mariano Conde, who trained under the legendary Domingo Esteso, a revered luthier and their mentor.
Following Esteso’s passing, the brothers continued his legacy under the label Sobrinos de Domingo Esteso. In the 1960s, as they refined their own style, they created instruments with remarkable strength in the basses and lyrical, singing trebles. These innovations caught the attention of the young Paco de Lucía, who transitioned from playing Ramírez guitars to Conde.
From the late 1960s onward, Paco de Lucía became synonymous with Conde guitars, propelling their popularity. In archived footage from the 1970s, countless emerging flamenco guitarists can be seen playing Conde instruments. Faustino Conde, credited with crafting these groundbreaking guitars, has left an indelible mark on flamenco history.
This rare 1990 “Paco de Lucía Special” model is part of a limited edition crafted to honor the maestro himself. It features the signatures of both Paco de Lucía and Conde on the label, making it a truly exceptional find.
The guitar boasts a cedar top and rosewood back and sides, reminiscent of Paco de Lucía’s personal instrument. With a scale length of 664 mm and a nut width of 52 mm, it provides an ideal balance of power and precision. The action at the 12th fret is 2.7 mm E and 2.1 mm e.
The guitar’s tone is nothing short of extraordinary. Its fast attack and vibrant flamenco character are captivating, delivering powerful basses and harmonically rich trebles. The sound balances beauty with the fiery edge that defines true flamenco music.
When played gently, it produces a warm, full, and lyrical voice. But when pushed, the guitar comes alive with an energetic, commanding bark that is unmistakably flamenco. This dynamic range and responsiveness are hallmarks of only the finest instruments.
This guitar is in excellent condition, with only minimal signs of use. The light wear from play adds to its charm without affecting its performance or visual appeal. It comes with a stunning pedigree, combining historical significance with outstanding craftsmanship.
This Hermanos Conde “Paco de Lucía Special” is a magnificent flamenco guitar, perfect for performers and collectors alike. Its impeccable tone, craftsmanship, and connection to one of flamenco’s greatest legends make it a guitar that’s impossible not to love.