2012 Bertand Ligier
An Exquisite Homage to the French School: A 2012 Bertrand Ligier Classical Guitar
This 2012 Bertrand Ligier guitar is an exceptional and highly unique instrument, representing a pivotal moment in the luthier's early career. As Ligier's 30th guitar—from a limited production of only 4 to 5 instruments per year—it is a testament to his meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to tradition. Crafted in France, this guitar stands as a magnificent tribute to the "giants" of the French lutherie tradition.
This particular model is a remarkable synthesis of the most esteemed principles of the French school. Ligier masterfully integrates the most celebrated elements from three legendary luthiers:
Robert Bouchet: The headstock and rosette design are an explicit homage to Bouchet, whose instruments are revered for their aesthetic and acoustic perfection. Original Bouchet guitars typically command prices around $100,000 USD today.
Daniel Friederich: The sides are expertly laminated with mahogany, a technique famously employed by Friederich to enhance structural stability and sound projection. Later-era Friederich guitars from the 2000s and beyond are valued at $60,000 USD and more.
Dominique Field: The entire bracing system is based on the highly effective designs of Dominique Field, a master whose work is currently valued around $50,000 USD.
This "three-in-one" approach has since been retired by Ligier as he has developed his own distinct style. This makes this 2012 model a rare and highly sought-after collector's item, offering an unparalleled historical and acoustic experience that is no longer in production.
Specs:
Top: Spruce
Back and Sides: Indian Rosewood
Sides: Laminated with Mahogany
Scale Length: 650mm
String Spacing on the Bridge: 55 mm (about 3 mm smaller than standard)
Construction Details:
Bracing: Dominique Field's bracing system
Side Construction: Laminated, in the style of Daniel Friederich
Headstock & Rosette: Homage to Robert Bouchet
Final Thoughts: This guitar is a feast for both the eyes and ears. Its aesthetic is defined by the refined French designs and legacies, that give it a refined and classy appearance. Sonically, it is a beautifully balanced instrument with clear, powerful trebles and rich, full basses—a rare achievement for a luthier at such an early stage in their career. The top is made of spruce, while the back and sides are Indian rosewood with laminated mahogany sides, all built to a 650mm scale. This guitar not only looks exquisite but performs at the highest level, making it a compelling investment. Considering the combined prestige of the luthiers whose work it honors, this instrument offers extraordinary value.
An Exquisite Homage to the French School: A 2012 Bertrand Ligier Classical Guitar
This 2012 Bertrand Ligier guitar is an exceptional and highly unique instrument, representing a pivotal moment in the luthier's early career. As Ligier's 30th guitar—from a limited production of only 4 to 5 instruments per year—it is a testament to his meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to tradition. Crafted in France, this guitar stands as a magnificent tribute to the "giants" of the French lutherie tradition.
This particular model is a remarkable synthesis of the most esteemed principles of the French school. Ligier masterfully integrates the most celebrated elements from three legendary luthiers:
Robert Bouchet: The headstock and rosette design are an explicit homage to Bouchet, whose instruments are revered for their aesthetic and acoustic perfection. Original Bouchet guitars typically command prices around $100,000 USD today.
Daniel Friederich: The sides are expertly laminated with mahogany, a technique famously employed by Friederich to enhance structural stability and sound projection. Later-era Friederich guitars from the 2000s and beyond are valued at $60,000 USD and more.
Dominique Field: The entire bracing system is based on the highly effective designs of Dominique Field, a master whose work is currently valued around $50,000 USD.
This "three-in-one" approach has since been retired by Ligier as he has developed his own distinct style. This makes this 2012 model a rare and highly sought-after collector's item, offering an unparalleled historical and acoustic experience that is no longer in production.
Specs:
Top: Spruce
Back and Sides: Indian Rosewood
Sides: Laminated with Mahogany
Scale Length: 650mm
String Spacing on the Bridge: 55 mm (about 3 mm smaller than standard)
Construction Details:
Bracing: Dominique Field's bracing system
Side Construction: Laminated, in the style of Daniel Friederich
Headstock & Rosette: Homage to Robert Bouchet
Final Thoughts: This guitar is a feast for both the eyes and ears. Its aesthetic is defined by the refined French designs and legacies, that give it a refined and classy appearance. Sonically, it is a beautifully balanced instrument with clear, powerful trebles and rich, full basses—a rare achievement for a luthier at such an early stage in their career. The top is made of spruce, while the back and sides are Indian rosewood with laminated mahogany sides, all built to a 650mm scale. This guitar not only looks exquisite but performs at the highest level, making it a compelling investment. Considering the combined prestige of the luthiers whose work it honors, this instrument offers extraordinary value.