1920s Lucien Gélas Double Top Classical
Lucien Gélas (1 January 1873 – 5 June 1944) was a luthier, classical guitarist, and educator. Gélas is well known for designing and patenting a nylon string guitar that features a double top, often referred to as a "Gélas guitar."
This Gélas guitar features a spruce top with maple back and sides. This guitar is over 100 years old, with previous repairs to several cracks in the top and back. Regardless, it sounds amazing with charming resonance and a rich, harmonious quality. The notes project beautifully and maintain their clarity with distinct separation. It has an incredibly powerful and dynamic sound.
Gélas' guitars were played by numerous important artists, particularly in the first half of the 20th century. Heinrich Albert (1870–1950) obtained a Gélas guitar (from Gaudet in Paris) and ascribes his concert successes largely to the guitar, praising its carrying sound, ease of responsiveness, and tone color. Other players of Gélas guitars included Luise Walker (1910–1998) and Bruno Henze (1900–1978).
This is a super-cool guitar from a bygone era. If you are looking for a distinct, sweet-sounding vintage nylon, you found it! Includes hardshell case.