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30 March 2009  |  Collections   |  Article

A Classic Hermann Hauser Guitar

Kerry Keane, Head of Department, Musical Instruments

The German-born Hermann Hauser Sr. (1882–1952) is considered by many to be the greatest non-Spanish luthier to create guitars in the Spanish tradition. His guitars are associated with exquisite craftsmanship and a tonal quality that is unrivaled.

This particular guitar is an important example of Hauser’s exemplary work. Its full and balanced sound along with great sustain and volume provides effortless playability and a powerful resonance.

Interestingly, Hauser gifted this guitar, with a dedication written internally on the sound board, to the famous Spanish classical guitarist Andrés Segovia in 1939. It was due to Segovia’s singular influence that Hauser altered his style of making to embrace the Spanish School, in line with makers such as Antonio Torres and José Ramirez (both makers are also featured in this sale). This transformation in his guitar making is what catapulted Hauser’s standing to the level of prestige it maintains today.


Related Sale
Sale 2152
Fine Musical Instruments
3 Apr 2009
New York, Rockefeller Plaza

Related Departments
Musical Instruments

Keywords
Musical Instruments

Lot 43, Sale 2152
HERMANN HAUSER SR
A CLASSICAL GUITAR, MUNICH, 1939
Price Realized: $134,500