Marcelino López Nieto is one of Spain's most respected and accomplished luthiers. He is one of only five living Spanish makers included on Summerfield's list of the finest guitar makers since 1800. Like many luthiers in Spain, Marcelino worked as a cabinet maker before entering his current profession. He was drawn into making guitars, because he was studying with Daniel Fortea, and wanted a fine guitar, but could not afford one. Unlike many makers, he is a fine guitarist, and still performs.

Although, he confesses that as a luthier he is largely self-taught,  he worked for a time (1971-75) making guitars for Hernandez y Aguado, and he informally learned much the theory of his craft from the widow of Santos Hernandez in whose workshop he hung out regularly as did many of the leading musicians of the time.  He established his own workshop in Madrid in 1947, and is still building. This guitar was built in 1960, and is his number 241. It is made with rare- straight grained Brazilian rosewood. The guitar looks to be completely original with the possible exception of some touch up of French Polish on scratches. While no repairs are needed or have been done, there are numerous small nail marks, a few small scratches and several small string burns. You have to look pretty closely to see them. Nothing is through the finish. Given the guitar is 52 years old, I would say it is in quite remarkable condition. The set up is optimal, and there is plenty of room to adjust the action should that be ever needed or desired.