Rachmaninoff, Sergei. (1873–1943)

Original Photograph with his Wife

Original sepia photograph of the important pianist and composer with his wife, Natalia Satina. Blindstamped at the lower right by the photographer, Hofphotograph Hahn (Nachfolger) of Dresden. In very fine condition. 4 x 5.5 inches (10 x 14 cm).

Rachmaninoff became engaged to his first cousin Natalia Satina, a fellow pianist whom he had known since childhood, in about 1899. However, the Orthodox church and Satina's parents opposed their announcement, thwarting their plans for marriage. The two eventually married in 1902, using the family's military background to circumvent the church; Rachmaninoff was not a regular church attendee and avoided confession, two things a priest had to confirm on a signed certificate. They settled in Moscow where they had two daughters, Irina Sergeievna Rachmaninova (1903–1969) and Tatiana Sergeievna Rachmaninova (1907–1961). (15801)


Unsigned Photograph
Classical Music