Schumann-Heink, Ernestine. (1861–1936)

Signed Photograph

Signed photograph of the German-American contralto, who is shown with her members of her family in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, and has signed boldly at the foot. The photograph has also been signed and inscribed at the upper right by Ferdinand Hirzy, Schumann-Heink's grandson-in-law, to the American-born violinist and composer Florizel von Reuter, and dated 1951. He has penned: "With admiration and devotion to a famous artist [...] and congratulations and God's blessing also to Mrs. Reuter..." We take the family members shown to be Schumann-Heink's granddaughter Ilse Heink Hirzy, her husband Ferdinand A. Hirzy and their children, shown ca. 1920's. From the collection of Florizel von Reuter. Lower edge unevenly trimmed; light toning; overall fine. 10 x 11 inches (25.5 x 28 cm).

Florizel von Reuter was an American-born violinist and composer, a child prodigy who went on to an adult career, mainly in Germany, as distinguished soloist and teacher of violin. He was also a psychic and medium, writing several books on his alleged communications with deceased musicians. (16233)
Signed Photograph
Opera