About the luthier

José Ángel Chacón Tenllado (1933–2019) was a highly influential Spanish master luthier based in Málaga, widely respected for both his guitar making and his role in building a modern Andalusian lutherie tradition. Born in Aguilar (Córdoba) and raised partly in El Puerto de Santa María, he began making instruments professionally in the mid-1960s before gaining international recognition after moving to Italy in 1974, where he established a workshop in Biella and earned distinction at the Antonio Stradivari international competition in Cremona in 1976, reportedly the first Spaniard to receive a diploma there. Returning to Spain, he became known not only for his finely crafted and restored instruments but also for teaching and mentoring many younger makers, helping to shape a “school” of lutherie in Málaga that continued through his son and successors. Chacón was awarded major honors including Spain’s Silver Medal of Fine Arts and the first “Master Artisan” title granted to a luthier by the Andalusian regional government, served as president (and later honorary president) of AELAP, and authored several works on lutherie, including La guitarra en la luthería, before his death in Málaga in 2019.

About the guitar

This beautiful traditional guitar by José Ángel Chacón is a fine example of classic Spanish guitar making. Built with seven thin fan bracings, a thin bridge plate, and two small diagonal bars on both the treble and bass sides of the lower bout, it follows a thoughtful and authentic traditional design. Visually, the guitar stands out with its inlaid chessboard-style pattern on the back and sides, adding a distinctive and elegant character. Tonally, the instrument is brilliant and lively, yet warm and romantic, offering a highly expressive and inspiring sound.

Condition

As a pre-loved instrument, the guitar is in very good condition, showing only normal playing wear and no structural issues.

José Ángel Chacón

José Ángel Chacón - 1993 64.8 cm