The luthier Manuel de Soto y Solares (1844–1906) maintained a close association with Antonio de Torres during their time in Seville, where their workshops were located just a few doors apart on Calle Cerragería. When Torres decided to step back and returned to Almería in 1870, those seeking guitars in the Torres style turned to Manuel de Soto y Solares. His guitars were favored by many prominent flamenco guitarists of the era, including Juan Breva, Paco de El Luna, and Maestro Pérez. Even Francisco Tárrega, the celebrated classical guitarist, acquired one of his instruments.

This particular Manuel de Soto y Solares guitar is believed to have been made around 1906. It was originally obtained from the estate of the luthier Marcelino López Nieto, who had begun its restoration. The restoration process was later completed by my friend Aaron Garcia Ruiz in Granada. Although the guitar is relatively small and may have been intended for a child, its 585 mm scale length suggests it could have been designed as a requinto. However, it performs exceptionally well in standard tuning, showcasing its outstanding musical qualities and historical significance.