[Saint-Saëns, Camille. (1835–1921)] Tolbecque, Auguste. (1830–1919)
Signed CDV Photograph
Scarce original carte de visite photograph of the French cellist, known as the dedicatee of Saint-Saëns' Cello Concerto no. 1, signed and inscribed on the verso. Tolbecque is shown holding his instrument (an unusual cello, perhaps converted from a viola da gamba or constructed by Tolbecque himself), and has signed on the verso, dating January 12, 1864. Photographed by A. Lombard. Light toning; overall fine. 2.5 x 4 inches (6.2 x 10.5 cm).Born in Paris, Tolbecque studied cello at the Conservatoire de Paris, where he was awarded the premier prix for cello in 1849. He later taught at the Marseille Conservatory from 1865–1871, followed by a period in Paris, where he performed with the Société des Concerts du Conservatoire, as well as with the Maurin and Lamoureux string quartets. On January 19, 1873, Tolbecque premiered Camille Saint-Saëns Cello Concerto No. 1, a work which was dedicated to him by the composer. In addition to his career as a professional cellist, Tolbecque built and constructed a number of historical instruments, and would often perform works on viola da gamba during his recitals. Many of his instruments were acquired for the collection of the Brussels Conservatoire (now the Musical Instrument Museum) in 1879. (16096)
Signed Photograph Classical Music