Francisco Simplicio 1928 #192

The guitar maker

Francisco Simplicio (Barcelona 1874-1932) worked as a cabinetmaker in Barcelona in Francisco Vidal’s workshop until 1918.

In 1919, he joined that of luthier Enrique García. His influence on García's guitars was immediately noticeable, in the quality of marquetry and the beauty of the rosettes and sculpted headstocks.

In 1923, upon the death of Enrique García, he continued to build guitars  in the
studio located in Paseo San Juan, and added the following to his labels:

"Sucesor y único discípulo de Enrique García"

Domingo Prat, in his Diccionario de guitarristas (1934) wrote:

“The fact that Simplicio, at the age of 45, took up the art of lutherie and went on to excel as one of the top guitar makers of his time attests to his intelligence; while his knowledge of cabinetmaking clearly gave him an advantage, he was able to build on that foundation under Enrique García constant guidance."

Between 1929 and 1930 , he created a guitar with a divided sound hole which he named "Moderna", of which there are eleven known specimens.

When he died in January 1932, it was his son , Miguel Simplicio, ever-present in the studio, who took over.

Description

This is a very fine instrument by Barcelona master Francisco Simplicio.

The sound of this guitar is particularly magnificent with a deep bottom and lyrical trebles. This effect is enhanced due to its installed brass 'tornavoz'.

Beautiful and ornate carving and inlay work with striking materials.

The guitar is in original condition. Even the nut bone bears the serial stamp number # 192.

Despite its age, it has never been re-finished.