[Opéra de Monte-Carlo] Gunsbourg, Raoul. (1860-1955)

Autograph Musical Quotation and Autograph Letter mentioning Grand Duke Vladimir and Fauré

ALS in French from the Romanian-born director, impresario, composer, and writer who led the Opéra de Monte-Carlo for nearly six decades.  On Parisian letterhead of the periodical Gil Blas, dated December 11, 1907, he writes: "Are you free to lunch tomorrow (or soon, today), Thursday?  If so, you would do Mme. Gunsbourg and me a great pleasure if you come to lunch with us..."  He goes on to list the other guests, who include "S. A. S. le Grand Duc Wladimir, M. M. Hébrard, Fauré" and others.  He gives his address and phone number and concludes, "a warm handshake and best wishes, Raoul Gunsbourg."  Grand Duke Vladimir Alexandrovich of Russia was a patron of the arts and made frequent trips to Paris.  Letter folds, light spotting; otherwise in fine condition.  13.3 x 20.8 cm.

Together with an original envelope marked "Personal" and addressed to "Mr. Schneider (Louis), who is dining with M. Corneau."  Below this, a short musical motif of two notes, perhaps meant as a special message to Schneider, the French music critic and author of biographies of Schumann, Massenet, Offenbach and others.  On the flap, the stamp of the Hôtel de Paris, Monte-Carlo.  Slight tear from opening; otherwise in very fine condition.  14.3 x 9.7 cm. (12914)


AMQS
Autograph Letter
Classical Music
Opera