Pavlova, Anna. (1881-1931)
Original Photograph in "The Dumb Girl of Portici"
Original photograph of the great ballerina in the 1916 silent film "The Dumb Girl of Portici," in which she starred as Fenella. Stamped on the verso by photographer Eugene Hutchinson of Chicago, as well as by the Boston Grand Opera Co. and Pavlowa Ballet Russe. Copyrighted by Hutchinson in the print at the lower right, and dated 1915 at the upper right. One corner crease with small chip, and some slight edge wear; overall very good. 7.75 x 9.5 inches (19.7 x 24.1 cm).The Dumb Girl of Portici is a 1916 American silent historical drama film directed by Phillips Smalley and Lois Weber and starring Anna Pavlova, Rupert Julian and Wadsworth Harris. The collaboration between Lois Weber and Anna Pavlova was a unique meeting of two pioneering female artists and entrepreneurs against the backdrop of World War I. Pavlova was dancing in Boston as part of Auber's grand opera La Muette de Portici, and wished to purchase and save the almost-bankrupt Boston Opera Company. She agreed to Universal's offer of $50,000 to star in a silent film adaptation of the same story. The film was the first blockbuster ever directed by a woman. It was restored by the Library of Congress and released on Blu-Ray in 2018. (18170)
Unsigned Photograph Dance