Sold

David Rubio - 1967 - Lute 8-course No. 138

David Rubio - 1967 - Lute 8-course No. 138

Overview

About the luthier

David "José" Rubio is widely regarded as one of the most important and versatile luthiers of the 20th century. Originally a flamenco guitarist, Rubio developed a passion for instrument making during his time in New York, where he opened his first workshop in 1963. His encounter with the legendary Julian Bream that same year marked the beginning of a close friendship and long-standing collaboration. Bream played several Rubio guitars and lutes, including a 1966 guitar used in the iconic recording “Julian Bream and his Friends” (1968) and a 1967 lute featured on four albums, most notably “The Lute Music of John Dowland” (1976). In 1967, Rubio returned to England, initially setting up his workshop in Bream’s residence in Semley, before establishing his own near Oxford in 1969. Over the years, Rubio expanded his expertise to include not only classical and flamenco guitars, but also lutes, vihuelas, theorboes, baroque guitars, viols, and harpsichords. In the 1980s, he relocated his workshop to Cambridge, where he continued to build instruments until his death in 2000.

About the lute

This exquisite 1967 lute by David Rubio, No. 138, is a superb eight-course instrument, with two single courses and six double courses. Designed with versatility in mind, it is perfectly suited for both baroque and romantic repertoire. The instrument is fully concert-ready and embodies the best of Rubio’s craftsmanship and tonal ideals.

Its body features an eye-catching alternating pattern of Indian rosewood and maple ribs, each segment of rosewood followed by one of maple, creating a striking “striped” effect that extends all the way into the neck, enhancing both the aesthetic and the structural unity of the instrument. This intricate back design not only adds visual drama but also reflects Rubio’s dedication and commitment.

Condition

This instrument is in excellent condition, showing only minimal signs of use. The structural integrity is flawless, and there are no cracks or repairs. It has been very well preserved over the decades, making it not only a highly playable lute but also a valuable collector's item.

Luthier: David Rubio
Construction year: 1967
Construction type: Traditional
Top: Spruce
Back and sides: Rosewood
Finish: French polish
Air body frequency: A # / B
Scale: 650 mm
Nut: 83 mm
Weight: 1280 grams
Tuners: Pegs
Condition: Excellent
Case: Hardshell

Details about GPSR:

Lute

Manufacturer Information:

David Rubio

Responsible Person:

Siccas Guitars GmbH, Roonstr. 31, 76137 Karlsruhe, Germany, www.siccasguitars.com, info@siccasguitars.com

Note: For antique guitars, the GPSR does not apply.

View full details

While this guitar is sold, these are ready for you

  • Classical Guitars

    The classical guitar, with its soft nylon strings and characteristic timbre, has become a symbol of chamber music, Spanish tradition, and concert repertoire. Its modern form was shaped by Antonio de Torres in the 19th century, setting the standard for the body, fan bracing, and the 65-centimeter scale length that are still used today. Instruments in this category open up a rich palette from the refined Romantic miniatures of Tárrega to the majestic concertos of Rodrigo. Here you will find guitars that preserve historical continuity and at the same time inspire new interpretations.
    Look all products of the collection
  • Luthier: Hermann Hauser II
    Luthier: Rare Guitars
    Construction Year: 1976
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Indian rosewood
    Soundboard Finish: Lacquer
    Body Finish: Lacquer
    Air Body Frequency: G sharp / A
    Weight (g): 1530
    Tuner: Landstorfer
    Condition: Excellent
  • Luthier: Paolo Coriani
    Construction Year: 2025
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Indian rosewood
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: F / F sharp
    Weight (g): 1405
    Tuner: Sloane
    Condition: Excellent
  • Luthier: Stephan Connor
    Construction Year: 2024
    Construction Type: Lattice
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Other-woods
    Soundboard Finish: Lacquer
    Body Finish: Lacquer
    Air Body Frequency: G sharp
    Weight (g): 1765
    Tuner: Sloane
    Condition: Excellent
  • Luthier: Richard Jacob Weissgerber
    Construction Year: 1940
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Flamed Maple
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: F sharp / G
    Weight (g): 1250
    Tuner: Antique
    Condition: Very good
  • Luthier: Otto Rauch
    Construction Year: 2018
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Maple
    Soundboard Finish: Lacquer
    Body Finish: Lacquer
    Air Body Frequency: G / G sharp
    Weight (g): 1270
    Tuner: Der Jung
    Condition: Excellent
  • Manufacturer: Armin Hanika
    Construction Year: 2026
    Construction Type: Double-Top Guitars
    Top: Cedar
    Back and Sides: Palo Escrito
    Soundboard Finish: Wax
    Body Finish: Wax
    Weight (g): 1605
    Tuner: Rubner El Sonido
    Condition: New
  • Luthier: Steelstring guitars
    Construction Year: 2026
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Pau Ferro
    Soundboard Finish: Polyurethane
    Body Finish: Polyurethane
    Air Body Frequency: F sharp / G
    Weight (g): 1920
    Tuner: Golden Age
    Condition: New
  • Construction Year: 1970
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Indian rosewood
    Soundboard Finish: Lacquer
    Body Finish: Lacquer
    Air Body Frequency: F sharp / G
    Weight (g): 1610
    Tuner: Fustero
    Condition: Excellent
  • Luthier: Giovanni Tacchi
    Construction Year: 2023
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Flamed Maple
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: E / F
    Weight (g): 1300
    Tuner: Alessi
    Condition: Mint
  • Manufacturer: Siccas Luthiers
    Construction Type: Double Top
    Construction Type: Double-Top Guitars
    Construction Type: Short Scale
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Wenge
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: Lacquer
    Air Body Frequency: F / F sharp
    Weight (g): 1600
    Tuner: Der Jung
    Condition: New

Related guitars

Exclusive Offers and Insights

Stay in tune with exclusive updates and offers from Siccas Guitars! Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and be the first to hear about new arrivals, special promotions, and expert insights into guitar craftsmanship. Enter your email below to join our community.