The most important guitar in the world?
1864 Antonio De Torres (FE17)
What is the FE17 Antonio De Torres guitar?
FE17 was built by Antonio de Torres Jurado in 1858 during his First Epoch in Sevilla. At the time, Torres was refining what would become the modern classical guitar—lighter, more responsive, and more acoustically efficient than anything before it.
Shortly after its construction, the guitar was acquired by Francisco Tárrega, who was still a young but rising virtuoso. FE17 became one of Tárrega’s most beloved instruments and was central to the development of his sound and technique. Many of his earliest interpretations, studies, and concert appearances were played on this guitar.
Over the years, FE17’s connection to Tárrega elevated its status. The instrument became a symbol of the birth of the modern classical guitar tradition, bridging Torres’ revolutionary design concepts with Tárrega’s performance innovations.
Today, FE17 is considered one of the most historically important guitars in existence—not because of ornate features, but because it is the instrument through which Torres' innovations met Tárrega’s genius, influencing generations of composers, performers, and luthiers.
The replicaa below was completed by John Vergara in 2024. Want to own a special instrument?
