2012 Manuel Contreras "10th Anniversary" SP/CO (ex Irina Kulikova)

This is the top model from the Contreras shop. In October of 2000, this model (the "10th Anniversary") won first-prize at the Joaquin Rodrigo competition in Spain. This particular guitar is the "premium series" version of the model, which indicates top selection of their most valuable wood and additional detailing in the workmanship.

The materials used are exquisite, featuring a gorgeous set of cocobolo with dramatic and contrasting sapwood elements for the back and sides, and very dark, aged spruce for the soundboard. Workmanship is to the highest standards - this can be instantly detected even with a quick glance at the detailing, particularly in the purfling and rosette. In the innovative Contreras spirit, this model is uniquely constructed with an inner-sounding back support, which allows the back to resonate freely - eliminating much of the normal dampening caused from contact with the players' body. The sound is penetrating and has exceptional sustain. It has huge projection and can fill any sized concert hall. It was built for the great concert artist Irina Kulikova, its first owner, and this has been memorialized in her signature, affixed just above the label on the inside of the back. A true "concert-grand" of an instrument, built for, and used by, a top performer!

NOTE: Our "in-studio" photos were taken years ago when this instrument first came to us. Since these photos were taken, the soundboard developed a crack which was well-repaired by luthier Richard Brune (it was repaired only with glue and without the use of cleats or patches on the inside). Otherwise, condition is as it was when we last saw it - virtually flawless. Please see the extra photos representing the repaired crack and the instrument's current condition.