"The Modern Orpheus" - 1831 Lithograph Portrait

Lithograph portrait of the great virtuoso, captioned "The Modern Orpheus, Opera House June 3rd 1831."  Paganini appears playing, standing in front of several other musicians with instruments who watch with interest.  Engraved by Richard Lane (whose initials appear at the lower left), after the sketch by Daniel Maclise.  The same engraving is found in the National Portrait Gallery (NPG D5451.) 

Some toning and spotting, especially around the mat edges; mounting remnants and tape on the verso.  The mat conceals a further caption: "Sketches of the Musical World, no. 1, to be continued."  20.5 x 27.5 cm, matted to 26.3 x 32.7 cm.

The date and location refer to Paganini's first appearance in England, after his marathon tour of major European cities, which lasted from 1828 into early 1831.  By the time he arrived in London, the English public was desperate to hear the great virtuoso -- and to pay exorbitant sums for private lessons.  At his first concert, he played his Concerto no. 1 in E flat and the Military Sonata for the Fourth String, impressing the audience greatly.  More than ten further concerts followed, as well as private appearances and a performance at court for George IV. (12930)

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Art

Unsigned Photo/Portrait

Classical Music

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