Richard Jacob Weissgerber - 1936 - Torres / Simplicio - 64 cm

About the luthier

Richard Jacob Weissgerber was one of the most prolific and versatile German luthiers of the 20th century. His artistic creativity and meticulous craftsmanship resulted in an impressive output of around 3500 instruments, making him one of the most significant figures of his era. His guitars are renowned for their individuality in both design and construction, combining German precision with tonal qualities that captivated players and collectors alike. Weissgerber’s work reflects a deep understanding of traditional European guitar making, while his unique approach ensured a distinctive voice within the instrument’s history.

About the guitar

This Simplicio-inspired model was built in 1936, during the later period of Weissgerber’s career. It illustrates his ability to blend Spanish tonal aesthetics with German craftsmanship. The Spanish guitarist Miguel Llobet once remarked that Weissgerber’s instruments were among the very few German guitars to achieve a truly Spanish sound, a statement that underlines the importance of his work. Characteristic of Weissgerber’s instruments from this time is the distinctive rosette design made of ebony and galalith, arranged in concentric ring patterns. The spruce top is paired with flamed maple back and sides, offering both brightness and depth, while the mahogany neck, stained black, contributes to stability and visual elegance. The headstock is also crafted from mahogany and fitted with a frontal head plate. With its low weight of 1310 grams and air resonance around A to A sharp, this guitar combines quick response with clarity and brightness. The instrument has undergone some repairs on the sides, where braces had once pushed through, yet overall it remains in very good condition. With its Torres- and Simplicio-inspired design and its clear yet lyrical voice, this Weissgerber represents both an important chapter in 20th-century guitar making and a highly desirable instrument for players and collectors.

Condition

The guitar is in very good condition, with some side repairs professionally executed. It retains structural stability and musical quality, making it a fine example of Weissgerber’s craftsmanship.