Neck:Cedoro
Fingerboard:Rosewood
Finish(Top):Shellac
Finish(Back & Sides):Shellac
Tuning Machines:FUSTERO
String Height(1st):2.7mm
String Height(6th):3.0mm

【The Origins of a Legend, Preserved in Sound】

[Luthier]
Viuda y Sobrinos de Domingo Esteso

The label “Viuda y Sobrinos de Domingo Esteso” (“Widow and Nephews of Domingo Esteso”) was used following the death of the renowned Madrid luthier Domingo Esteso (1882–1937). It signifies instruments completed after his passing, in practice built by his nephews—Faustino Conde (1913–1988) and his brothers Mariano (1916–1989) and Julio (1918–1995).

Esteso had worked as a master craftsman in the legendary Manuel Ramírez workshop alongside Santos Hernández before establishing his own workshop at Gravina 7 in Madrid in 1919. His guitars are celebrated for their natural authenticity, combining warmth, strength, and a richly expressive tonal character that remains highly valued today.

During this transitional period, the Conde brothers continued Esteso’s tradition, producing instruments that faithfully preserved his style. This era would later evolve into the famed “Conde Hermanos” brand, which became one of the most influential names in flamenco guitar making.

[Instrument]
1940 Viuda y Sobrinos de Domingo Esteso, Flamenco Guitar

A rare example from this period, this 1940 flamenco guitar features beautifully figured flamed maple back and sides—an uncommon choice for the brand. Built by the young Conde brothers in their twenties, it closely follows Esteso’s original design in both construction and aesthetic.

The bracing system is straightforward: a harmonic bar above and below the soundhole, reinforcing plates around the soundhole area, and seven evenly spaced, parallel fan braces across the lower bout. Notably, there are no closing bars or additional reinforcement under the bridge. The resonance is set slightly above G (A=440Hz).

Tonally, the instrument delivers exceptional presence and immediacy. The response is highly linear, with a direct connection between touch and sound. Notes emerge with vivid clarity and density, maintaining focus and projection through their full sustain. Articulation is crisp in melodic passages, while chords retain excellent balance and definition—qualities that align naturally with flamenco expression.

The overall tone is bright, complemented by a subtle shading characteristic of maple, adding nuance and depth to its voice. Volume and dynamic range are also outstanding.

[Condition]
Considering its nearly 90 years of age, the guitar remains in good condition. It is finished in shellac. The top has repaired cracks along both sides of the fingerboard extending slightly into the rosette area; these are stable and do not affect current use. General playing wear is visible across the top, including scratches and dents consistent with age.

There is noticeable wear to the golpeador area on the treble side and several scratches (approx. 3–5 cm) near the bass side of the soundhole. The back and sides show expected wear from use, including surface marks and scratches.

The neck has a slight forward relief on the treble side but remains playable as is. The frets appear to have been replaced in recent years and are in good condition. The fingerboard shows minor wear in the lower positions (1st–7th frets) without affecting playability.

The neck has a slim D-shaped profile. String height is set at 2.7 mm (1st string) and 3.0 mm (6th string) at the 12th fret, with approximately 2.0 mm of saddle remaining.

The tuning machines have been replaced with a Fustero (Ramírez-style) set. The plates extend slightly (approx. 1 mm) beyond the wood edge, though not detracting significantly from the appearance.

Weight: 1.30 kg.