While the company was based in Vancouver, Larrivée built its reputation for great-sounding acoustics. Under the direction of Jean Larrivée, these guitars were built to the specs he designed while studying the European classical tradition. They were also adorned with the intricate inlay designs of Wendy Larrivée, further establishing their distinctive, eye-catching features. While their quick response and bell-like tone draw the attention of many fingerstyle players, Larrivée guitars are versatile and sound great with a variety of different styles.
This 1998 Larrivée C-10 features the company's traditional body design—somewhere in between a dreadnought and a grand concert-size—with a striking Florentine cutaway that facilitates smooth access all the way up the fingerboard. It has a 25.5" scale length, and its nut measures 1-3/4" wide. Style "10" designates the "Rosewood Deluxe Series," and this one employs gorgeous East Indian Rosewood back and sides as well as Rosewood binding. Its abalone rosette, abalone top purfling, and ornate fingerboard inlays further establish the "Deluxe" aesthetic. This is a refined guitar—both in features and in tone. Complex, bell-like trebles are balanced by smooth, present bass with plenty of headroom on tap, too.
This 1998 Larrivée C-10 is in excellent condition with no history of repairs or issues. It has a Fishman pickup installed and a clear protective film pickguard. It shows the expected signs of play and enjoyment over the years (see photos), but it has been protected well, so it is free of any severe cosmetic issues. Original hardshell case and paperwork included.