Santos Hernandez (1874-1943) is among the most revered Spanish luthiers of the first half of the 20th century. Born in Madrid in the year 1873, he embarked on his journey as an apprentice under the tutelage of Valentin Viudes II. Later, he ventured to Granada, where he honed his craft working alongside José Ortega. However, his passion led him back to Madrid, where he joined the esteemed workshop of Hijo de Francisco Gonzalez. In 1893, duty called, and Santos answered by serving in the Spanish-American war during his military tenure. Once he completed his service, he found work in the renowned establishment of Manuel Ramirez. It is widely acknowledged that Santos was the craftsman that made the classical guitar that Manuel presented to Andres Segovia in 1912

Following Manuel's death in 1916, Santos continued to work for his widow until at least 1918. Around that time he opened own workshop at Plaza Nicolas Salmeron, no 8. In 1921, Santos relocated his workshop to Calle Aduana. Throughout his prolific career spanning from 1916 to his departure in 1943, Santos is believed to have built approximately 300 flamenco guitars under his own name. His guitars became the standard by which all other maker’s work was measured. Almost every prominent flamenco period of his era from Ramon Montoya to Sabicas, all played his guitars. Every aspect of this guitar showcases Santos Hernandez's skills and carries the unmistakable sound.

This particular flamenco guitar is very reminesent of one Santos built in 1903 that he named "El Bombón," and keep as his own guitar for the rest of his life. Other than one repaired crack in the side of the guitar, and a few minor scrathes, the guitar is remarkable original condition. It is set up comfortably as a flamenco guitar, and has sufficient bone in the saddle to make lower the action should it be desired.