Louis Panormo - 1850 No. 1978 63 cm
About the luthier
Louis Panormo was one of the most important guitar makers active in England during the first half of the nineteenth century. Born in Paris around 1784 into a family of instrument makers of Italian origin, he later settled in London, where he established himself as a leading figure in the development of the early romantic guitar. Panormo worked during a period of rapid evolution in guitar design and is widely credited with introducing Spanish-inspired fan bracing to instruments built in England. His work played a decisive role in shaping the voice and construction of the romantic guitar. Surviving instruments are rare and provide invaluable insight into the transition from early nineteenth-century guitar making toward the later Spanish school.
About the guitar
This guitar, built in 1850 and bearing the number 1978, is a representative example of Louis Panormo’s mature work. Its voice is refined and remarkably full, with a low air resonance that contributes to an exceptionally deep bass register. The treble strings respond with clarity and roundness, offering effortless sustain and a calm, vocal presence throughout the upper range. The tonal balance is natural and cohesive, with excellent separation that supports period repertoire with clarity. The seven-fan bracing, typical of Panormo's later guitars, imparts both structural lightness and tonal complexity, enhancing resonance without sacrificing control. The instrument’s shorter scale length and overall dimensions contribute to its intimate feel and ease of playability, especially suited to romantic literature.
Condition
The guitar is in very good condition for its age. Several cracks on the sides have been professionally repaired without the use of cleats. The soundboard has one crack which has been reinforced with cleats. The original finish is preserved with French polish throughout, and the antique Baker tuners remain fully functional and feature intricate original engravings.
Original: $13,249.52
-70%$13,249.52
$3,974.86Product Information
Product Information
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Description
About the luthier
Louis Panormo was one of the most important guitar makers active in England during the first half of the nineteenth century. Born in Paris around 1784 into a family of instrument makers of Italian origin, he later settled in London, where he established himself as a leading figure in the development of the early romantic guitar. Panormo worked during a period of rapid evolution in guitar design and is widely credited with introducing Spanish-inspired fan bracing to instruments built in England. His work played a decisive role in shaping the voice and construction of the romantic guitar. Surviving instruments are rare and provide invaluable insight into the transition from early nineteenth-century guitar making toward the later Spanish school.
About the guitar
This guitar, built in 1850 and bearing the number 1978, is a representative example of Louis Panormo’s mature work. Its voice is refined and remarkably full, with a low air resonance that contributes to an exceptionally deep bass register. The treble strings respond with clarity and roundness, offering effortless sustain and a calm, vocal presence throughout the upper range. The tonal balance is natural and cohesive, with excellent separation that supports period repertoire with clarity. The seven-fan bracing, typical of Panormo's later guitars, imparts both structural lightness and tonal complexity, enhancing resonance without sacrificing control. The instrument’s shorter scale length and overall dimensions contribute to its intimate feel and ease of playability, especially suited to romantic literature.
Condition
The guitar is in very good condition for its age. Several cracks on the sides have been professionally repaired without the use of cleats. The soundboard has one crack which has been reinforced with cleats. The original finish is preserved with French polish throughout, and the antique Baker tuners remain fully functional and feature intricate original engravings.
