Santos Hernández 1919 – Madrid

An exceptional and historically important flamenco guitar handcrafted in Madrid in 1919 by the legendary Santos Hernández himself during his early independent period after working in the workshop of Manuel Ramírez.

This remarkable instrument represents the golden era of Spanish guitar making and carries all the character and refinement associated with the great Madrid school of luthiery.

The guitar features a spruce top paired with cypress back and sides, a cedar neck, and traditional wooden tuning pegs. It delivers an incredibly fast response, beautiful basses, and a subtle, refined tonal character.

One of the most fascinating details of this guitar is the headstock and rosette work typical of early Santos Hernández instruments. The rosette is especially elegant and more elevated than the standard designs usually seen on these guitars, suggesting that this instrument may have been built as a special commission. The guitar is French polished.

Instruments from this period are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors, professional musicians, and museums alike. Beyond its historical significance, this guitar remains a responsive and inspiring musical instrument with a deeply authentic old Spanish voice.

About Santos Hernández

Santos Hernández was one of the most influential Spanish guitar makers of the early 20th century. Born in Madrid in 1874, he worked for the famous Manuel Ramírez workshop before establishing his own name as a master builder. Santos became renowned for creating instruments with extraordinary responsiveness, warmth, and refinement, and his guitars were played by many important musicians of the era.

Today, original Santos Hernández guitars are considered among the finest and most collectible historical Spanish guitars ever made.

This guitar is available for serious buyers and collectors. If you are genuinely interested, please send us an email or contact us to discuss further details and arrange an appointment.