Southwell Guitars

The Panormo Guitar 1835

(click to enlarge photo)

The soundboard is made from spruce, and the guitar has a Rio rosewood back and sides, a mahogany neck with a beautiful and distinctive maple head fixed by a superb V joint. It has an ebony fingerboard and bridge, rosewood purflings, 18 brass frets, Baker style machines and a 63cm string length.

Historical Note

The Panormo family were leading instrument makers for three generations from 1734 to 1890, and were famous for their guitars between 1820 and 1860. The family originally came from Italy and, after living in Paris for a time, finally settled in London.

The most noted guitar makers in the Panormo family were Louis (1784 to 1862), and his nephew, George Lewis (1815 to 1877). The Panormo guitar is made in the 'Spanish Style' but is much more refined than the Spanish guitars of the time. The construction of the front is notable for its use of fan strutting, helping to give the sound a rich rounded tone. This stylish guitar is closer to the modern classical guitar than any other models from this period. Famous virtuosi players who used their guitars include Huerta and Sczepanowski.

For more information, contact
Gary Southwell

site created June 2004
Page last changed October 2007