Rubinstein, Ida. (1885 - 1960) [Debussy, Claude. (1862-1918)]
Signed Photograph
Elusive signed Auguste Bert of Paris postcard photograph of the celebrated Russian ballerina and actress in her most celebrated role, as Saint Sebastien in "The Martyrdom of Saint Sebastien" at the Chatelet Theatre, Paris (1911). Signed in purple ink with her name alone and dated 1919. 9 x 13.8 cm, from the collection of Auguste Dubeux (1894-1979), his notation on the verso, and in very fine condition. Signed photographs of Rubinstein are very rare. This is only the second we have ever offered and a particularly fine example."The Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian" is a five-act musical play by Claude Debussy in collaboration with Gabriele d'Annunzio. It was written in 1911 and was designed as a vehicle for Ida Rubinstein. Leon Bakst designed the sets and costumes and Michel Fokine did the choreography. The work was not successful when first presented on May 22nd, 1911 at the Théatre du Chatelet in Paris, conducted by Caplet and it was attended by scandal, with the the Archbishop of Paris requesting that Catholics not attend because the dancer playing St. Sebastian was a woman and a Jew. (22798)
Signed Photograph Dance