1999 Carl. Barney Sal Salvador

Here we have a near mint gorgeous superb example of New York Jazz Guitarmaker Carl Barney‘s work. Everything about this guitar is a perfect and virtually unplayed. Here is a bit of history about him.: Carl Barney is a highly respected New York and Connecticut-based luthier known for his exquisite handcrafted archtop and classical guitars. He began building guitars in 1968, initially focusing on classical instruments before crafting his first archtop in 1972. Barney soon developed a close working relationship with jazz legend Sal Salvador, building several guitars for him and eventually creating the Sal Salvador Artist model in 1980.
Barney’s instruments are celebrated for their meticulous craftsmanship, use of premium tonewoods (such as Adirondack red spruce and figured maple), and beautiful hand-carved details. He hand-selects and often mills his own woods, including rare Gabon ebony and Brazilian rosewood, ensuring each guitar is both visually stunning and sonically exceptional. His archtop guitars are especially prized among jazz musicians, with notable players like Bucky Pizzarelli, Mundell Lowe, and Ben Sher among his clients.
Barney’s workshop, located in Southbury, CT, has produced a relatively small number of instruments—each carefully crafted, with the builder reaching his 100th guitar after more than four decades of work. His guitars are known for their lively resonance, excellent projection, and elegant appointments such as ornate inlays and custom bindings. Despite the high quality, Barney has always aimed to keep his guitars accessible to working musicians, reflecting his own roots as a player and craftsman.
In summary, Carl Barney’s guitars are esteemed for their artistry, playability, and rich history, making them treasured instruments for collectors and performers alike.