William Gilkes Parlor Guitar ca. 1870 Samuel Gilkes

Extremely rare example of a guitar made by the great English luthier William Gilkes of the world famous Forster Shop, and son of arguably the greatest English cello maker of all time, Samuel Gilkes.

Beautiful Brazilian back and sides, with a solid ebony fingerboard. The purfling and rosette are in the same style as the few Gilkes guitars that have ever come to market. Any top cracks have been glued and cleated, with some abrasions on the lower bout and top. Repair to the top end piece and purfling. The original bridge is included, and has been replaced with a beautifully crafted bridge and bone saddle. Comes with both the original coffin case and a modern case for storage. Truly a rare guitar by one of the great English luthiers of the 19th century.