Giacinti Celeste & Figlio Harp Guitar 1880s

Giacinti Celeste & Figlio was a renowned guitar maker from Milan, Italy, active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were known for their craftsmanship and specialized in building unique stringed instruments, including harp guitars. Giacinti Celeste & Figlio’s designs were often refined and reflected the aesthetic and musical traditions of their time. This Italian masterpiece from a bygone era represents a fascinating period in guitar making, when instrument makers experimented with new tonal possibilities and forms.

The distinctive harp-style guitar combines the traditional strings of a classical guitar with additional bass strings, which was a revolutionary innovation at the time. The spruce top and mahogany body and sides provide a warm, rich tone with surprising depth and resonance that is simply not found in modern instruments.

What makes this instrument special are the beautiful decorative elements that show the craftsmanship of the Italian builders: the rosewood binding, the fine purfling, the detailed rosette and the graceful snowflake inlay of mother of pearl on the ebony fingerboard. These refined details testify to the artistry that has been put into every inch of this historic instrument.

After almost a century and a half, this guitar has inevitably collected the necessary signs of its long life, but that only increases its authenticity and charm. The top has several repaired cracks, and the lining of the back of the body has been re-glued.