[Montemezzi, Italo. (1875 - 1952)] Marussig, Guido. (1885–1972) [D'Annunzio, Gabriele. (1863–1938)]
Photograph Prints of Scenic Designs for "La Nave"
Collection of four period photographic reproductions of scene designs by the Italian painter for the 1918 Montemezzi opera La Nave, adapted from D'Annunzio's 1908 play. Three of the four identified within the negative "Gabriele D'Annunzio / La Nave / Apparizione scenica del / [I/II/III] episodio / composizion / di / Guido Marussig" to recto, and all four with Kaufmann & Fabry Co. of Chicago photographer's stamp to verso. "Catechumen"(?) written in green ink to verso of two prints, and three with small drawings in the same ink, also to verso, all in an unknown hand. Light wear to edges and corners, overall in fine condition. Each approx. 9.5 x 6 inches (24.1 x 15.2 cm.).Italo Montemezzi's opera Nave premiered in 1918 at La Scala, Milan and wa meant to cement his reputation following the success of L'Amore di Tre Re in 1913. His publishers, Ricordi, had high hopes that he would be a talent to replace Puccini and it was Tito Ricordi who adapted Gabriele D'Annunzio's play La Nave for Montemezzi. No expense was spared, the sets by Guido Marussig were highly realistic and included a complete ship, built as an independent structure, which was the focal point of the final scene as it was launched, with the heroine Basiliola strapped to the bow as the figure head! The plot was gruesome and the adaptation cut out a lot of D'Annunzio's poetry. Rather than being a success, critics complained and Montemezzi never wrote another full scale opera.
The present reference photographs of Marussig's original designs were likely used in preparation of the production by the Chicago Opera Association at the Chicago Opera House on 18 November 1919 with Rosa Raisa and Alesandro Dolci. It was directed by Montemezzi with lighting, costumes and new scenery designed by Bel Geddes. (20270)
Art Unsigned Photograph Film Theater