Conde Hermanos[コンデ・エルマノス] Atocha Flamenco Negra

Product Description

Neck:Mahogany
Fingerboard:Ebony
Finish(Top):Lacquer
Finish(Back & Sides):Lacquer
Tuning Machines:FUSTERO
String Height(1st):2.8mm
String Height(6th):3.5mm

[Maker Information]

Among the many Spanish flamenco guitar brands, Conde Hermanos is regarded as one of the most established and iconic names. The origins of the brand can be traced back to the period following the death of the master luthier Domingo Esteso (1882–1937). His nephew Faustino Conde, who had received direct instruction from Esteso, and his younger brothers Mariano and Julio took over Esteso's workshop.

The three brothers eventually established themselves independently under the name Conde Hermanos (“Hermanos” meaning “brothers” in Spanish). They later opened their own workshops in Gravina, Atocha, and Felipe, respectively, where they continued to build their own distinctive flamenco guitars while preserving the traditions inherited from Esteso.

The three brothers passed away one after another toward the end of the 1980s. Their sons subsequently took over the workshops and continued producing guitars under the Conde Hermanos name. In 2010, two of Mariano's sons became independent under their own names, Felipe Conde and Mariano Conde II, and, as they have been among the most active makers in the tradition, these two brands are now often regarded in the media as the principal successors to the Conde legacy.

At the same time, the Atocha workshop, which had continued to produce more standard models for a wider range of players while placing less emphasis on highly individual luthier-made characteristics, was passed down through Julio's daughter and granddaughter and continues to produce guitars steadily today.

Conde guitars have been played and cherished by many of the world's most renowned flamenco guitarists, most famously Paco de Lucía. For flamenco guitar enthusiasts, they have become an essential and iconic part of the instrument's history.

[Instrument Information]

This is a 1966 Conde Hermanos guitar from the Atocha workshop, featuring the classic black finish. Built with a spruce top and Indian rosewood back and sides, this instrument has been thoroughly played in and matured beautifully over the years, producing a pleasantly seasoned, dry tone. It offers excellent response, ample volume, and comfortable playability, making it a highly capable flamenco guitar.

The internal bracing consists of seven symmetrically arranged fan braces, together with a V-shaped closing bar in the lower bout. The resonance is set slightly below G.

The guitar shows scratches and other signs of wear consistent with its age, but there are no significant issues affecting playability or overall use. It remains a highly practical and immediately playable instrument.

The headstock shape is not the famous Media Luna design, but rather follows the tradition inherited from Domingo Esteso.