![Rachel [Elizabeth-Rachel Félix]. (1821-1858) CDV Photograph as Phèdre](http://www.schubertiademusic.com/cdn/shop/files/Felix_2C_Elizabeth_Rachel_Photograph_4716.jpg?v=1722186755)
Scarce original CDV photograph by Mayer & Pierson (Paris) of the celebrated French actress in the title role of Racine's play Phèdre. Upper right corner of albumen photograph chipped, else fine. Approx. 2.25 x 3.5 inches (6 x 9 cm).
Creator of the title role in Eugène Scribe's "Adrienne Lecouvreur," her acting style was characterized by clear diction and economy of gesture, and represented a major change from the exaggerated style of the period. Rachel had many lovers and her personal life was frequently the subject of scandal. She was mistress of Napoleon I's son, Alexandre Joseph Count Colonna-Walewski, and together they had a son in 1844. When Walewski upbraided her for not remaining faithful to him, she famously retorted, "I am as I am; I prefer renters to owners."
Scarce original CDV photograph by Mayer & Pierson (Paris) of the celebrated French actress in the title role of Racine's play Phèdre. Upper right corner of albumen photograph chipped, else fine. Approx. 2.25 x 3.5 inches (6 x 9 cm).
Creator of the title role in Eugène Scribe's "Adrienne Lecouvreur," her acting style was characterized by clear diction and economy of gesture, and represented a major change from the exaggerated style of the period. Rachel had many lovers and her personal life was frequently the subject of scandal. She was mistress of Napoleon I's son, Alexandre Joseph Count Colonna-Walewski, and together they had a son in 1844. When Walewski upbraided her for not remaining faithful to him, she famously retorted, "I am as I am; I prefer renters to owners."