Joseph Jesselli is the most famous unknown luthier I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing. He hails from NY Born in 1949, he still creates handmade guitars in his 70’s. In his earlier years he apprenticed with the one and only James D’Aquisto. There’s direct lineage there dating back to John D’Angelico and his custom NY’ers, for whom D’Aquisto apprenticed and worked with side by side back in the 40’s and 50’s when D’Angelico guitars were at the top of their game. Some D’Angelico NY’ers (if ever available) fetch upward of $100k by collectors who know their Jazz Boxes.
I commissioned my uncle Joe to build this relatively affordable guitar in 1990. I was fortunate enough to be there every step of the way through the build process. Jesselli is my Uncle. My Moms Brother. I was at the shop quite a bit back in those days.
This guitar is a work of art. It’s crafted with an obvious nod to Art Deco of the 40’s. Every aspect of this Jesselli custom build is original in design creation and manufacture. From the custom made knobs to the custom made strap locks, strap, bridge, tailpiece, and custom Gretsch Filtertron pickups, this guitar is a one of a kind collectible.
The video attached to this items listing is a demo of a very similar Jesselli creation with the exception of the graduated tone control. Most of the other notable details are very similar. The Modernaire is a model that has gained the most popularity within the Jesselli collection.
Recognized far and wide as one of the top guitar builders in the world, Jesselli guitars has been written up in Guitar World, The New York Times, Modernmojoguitars.com and more.
One of his guitars can be seen being played by Keith Richards in the Rolling Stones video “Under cover of night”... He built several guitars for Keith and Ron back in the 80’s. They absolutely love his work. He continues to enjoy their unofficial endorsements.
He was also commissioned by David Bowie to build his “China Girl” Guitar. Working with D’Aquisto, he took part in repairing and customizing the guitars of such notable players as Paul Simon, Al DiMeola, Joe Pass, Paul Pesco, Tony Mattola and many, many others.
He’s just finished a new build. I’m looking at purchasing one of them at this time. That’s the reason I’m listing this guitar here.
She’s a beauty and has aged wonderfully. Having been Maintained by the artist that created her, she’s in pristine condition.
From headstock to input jack, this is a special piece of art for someone who understands what it means to own a piece of luthier history.