The Conde dynasty was founded by Domingo Esteso (1882-1937), who established his own shop in 1915 after building guitars in the esteemed Manuel Ramirez workshop. Esteso's great-nephews, Mariano and Felipe Conde, have designed and built this limited-edition model as a tribute to their great heritage. Instead of being modeled on a single Esteso guitar, this instrument was designed after studying original Esteso soleras, woods, moulds, head drawings, rosettes, patterns, etc. that have been inherited by the Conde brothers. Additionally, Felipe and Mariano have personally handled and inspected over 100 instruments by their great-uncle and so in effect, this model is Conde's greatest hits of Esteso!
Materials that have been selected are among Conde's finest and most aged. The spruce top is perfectly quarter-sawn, with plenty of silk. The rosette is striking with the contrasting reds, greens and black in the bands and mosaic. Playability is excellent - Conde's reputation for extremely easy playability in their flamenco guitars is realized fully in this classical. This instrument produces a beautiful Esteso-like quality of sound: clear and penetrating yet warm and deep. Overall, this is a collectors showpiece and at the same time concert-ready for the professional recitalist.
This gorgeous example from 2006 is in excellent condition, with barely any signs of playing wear.
A hardshell case is included with this guitar.
Luthier Bio: Conde Hermanos
