Medtner, Nikolai. (1880–1951) [Hofmann, Josef. (1876–1957)]
Signed Photograph to Josef Hofmann
Original sepia Paola of Moscow photograph of the Russian composer and pianist, signed and inscribed to his contemporary, Polish American virtuoso pianist Josef Hofmann. Medtner is shown in a seated half-length portrait, holding cigarette and looking into camera, and has penned on the mount below the image in German: "Mr. Josef Hofmann / from his sincerest admirer." 5.25 x 4 inches, mounted to 10 x 6.75 inches. An extraordinary association.Medtner was one of the very last Romantic composer-pianists, his career being overshadowed by his close contemporaries Scriabin and Rachmaninoff. Like them, he placed the piano at the heart of his creative activity, but unlike them he tempered a Russian spirit with musical thought more firmly based in the Western classical tradition. (14552)
Signed Photograph Classical Music