[Dance] [Ballets Russes] [Firebird] Stravinsky, Igor. (1882–1971)
L'Oiseau de Feu - SIGNED PHOTOGRAPH
Vintage glossy original photograph of an unidentified production of Stravinsky's "Firebird," signed in blue ballpoint ink "Cordially, Igor Stravinsky" along the lower edge. 24 x 18 cm, the signature rather light with poor ink adhesion, otherwise in fine condition. Identified in Italian on the verso, possibly providing a clue as to the production details. We have not previously seen a signed stage production image from the composer.The Firebird was commissioned from the 27 year old composer by Diaghilev and on June 25, 1910, “with the celebrated ballerina Tamara Karsavina and the Ballet Russes, the most important ballet since Tchaikovsky had its premiere in Paris. As Diaghilev had predicted, Stravinsky became famous overnight...Stravinsky learned well from Rimsky-Korsakov and equaled his master in orchestral opulence. The score is an enchantment, and its individual numbers - from the Infernal Dance to the Berceuse - exude the fragrance of Russianism in the grand tradition, with added dissonant spice. Stravinsky's first important work remains a favorite.” (David Dubal) The original production featured scenery and costumes designed by Alexander Golovine and Leon Bakst; the original cast was Tamara Karsavina, Michel Fokine, Enrico Cecchetti, and Vera Fokina. (6569)
Signed Photograph Classical Music