Cassel, Walter - Vocalist - baritone - Kurvenal - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person with wavy hair and a groomed beard wearing a dark-colored tunic decorated with several large square and round metal plates. A thin chain hangs diagonally across the person's torso, and their hand rests on a hilt at their waist. Blue ink handwriting appears in the top left corner of the scene.
State University of New York at Buffalo. Music Library
IN COPYRIGHT. This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s). Copyright Statement for Digitized Materials from the Music Library
Benzell, Mimi - Vocalist - soprano - - Has inscription
A person with short, curled dark hair faces forward in a studio portrait wearing an off-the-shoulder gown with a sequined bodice and tulle sleeves. Black ink handwriting is inscribed across the person's arm and dress, ending with a signature from Mimi Benzell. The lower-left corner contains a studio mark from Bruno of Hollywood.
Schoeffler, Paul - Vocalist - baritone - Jochanaan -
A person with dark, shoulder-length hair and theatrical makeup looks toward the upper right. They have dark lines around the eyes and a thin mustache, with their hands held flat against their chest over a dark, textured sleeveless garment. The black-and-white scene features a dark background and a signature in the bottom right corner.
Stignani, Ebe - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Ulrica -
A person in a detailed floor-length costume with patterned sleeves and fringe stands on a small tiered platform. Behind them is a large, textured backdrop depicting vertical stone structures. The person has dark makeup on their eyes and lips and hair gathered behind their head. The black and white scene is illuminated with lighting that casts shadows across the platform.
Warren, Leonard, 1911-1960 - Vocalist - baritone - Simon Boccanegra -
A person with a long beard and wavy hair sits while gripping the hilt of a sword with both hands. The individual wears a patterned tunic with a laced front under a dark outer garment. The sword's hilt features intricate metalwork and a curved crossguard. A numeric code is visible in the lower-left corner against a neutral, mottled background.
Carmen with Risë Stevens, Osie Hawkins, and Richard Tucker
Hawkins, Osie - Vocalist - baritone - Zuniga - Has inscription
Stevens, Risë, 1913- - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - CarmenHas inscription
Tucker, Richard, 1913-1975 - Vocalist - tenor - Don Jose - Has inscription
A black and white scene displays a group of performers on a stage with a painted backdrop of multi-story buildings. In the foreground, one individual in a uniform holds a sword, while another in a ruffled dress sits nearby. A larger group in various dresses and hats stands in the background, and handwritten signatures are visible at the bottom of the scene.
Caniglia, Maria - Vocalist - soprano - Amelia -
A person stands on a stage wearing a floor-length dark dress with lace detailing and a long white veil draped over their head. They hold a dark patterned object in one hand while the other hand rests at the edge of the veil. The background consists of a large painted set piece depicting a rugged landscape.
Tito Gobbi as Renato in Ballo in Maschera
Gobbi, Tito - Vocalist - baritone - Renato - Has inscription
A person stands wearing a dark velvet jacket with horizontal straps and a white lace collar. They have short, dark, curly hair and a goatee, looking to the side with their mouth open. A desk with a quill and inkwells is visible in the background, and a signature is written at the bottom.
Gavazzeni, Gianandrea, 1909- - Conductor - - -
A person in formal attire conducts against a dark background. They wear a suit jacket, white shirt, and tie while looking upward toward a light source. The individual holds a conducting baton in their right hand and points an index finger upward with their left hand. Text at the bottom identifies the subject as Gianandrea Gavazzeni.
Massenet's Manon at the Metropolitan Opera
Angeles, Victoria de los - Vocalist - soprano - Manon (Manon) - Has inscription
Valletti, Cesare - Vocalist - tenor - Des Grieux (Manon)Has inscription
Two performers in period attire are positioned within an ornate room setting on a stage. One individual stands wearing a long coat and breeches while the other sits in a floral gown, both looking at a small piece of paper. The set features striped walls, a framed painting, and a backdrop of city buildings visible through an open doorway. Black and blue signatures are written over the scene.
Merrill, Robert, 1917- - Vocalist - baritone - Alfredo Germont - Has inscription
A person is shown from the chest up wearing a period-style coat with a dark velvet collar and a cravat with a small pin. One hand holds a pair of spectacles while the other holds a piece of paper. The individual has wavy hair and sideburns, and the garment features a handwritten signature that reads "Sincerely Robert Merrill."
Jessner, Irene - Vocalist - soprano - - Has inscription
A person with short, wavy hair is shown from the waist up in a black and white studio setting. They wear a dark, long-sleeved garment with a V-neckline, a pearl necklace, and jewelry on their ears, wrist, and hands. The lower portion of the frame displays their hands resting on a surface and a handwritten signature.
Uppman, Theodor, 1920- - Vocalist - baritone - Paquillo -
Act 3, scene 1: Paquillo fins himself in the dungeon for recalcitrant husbands
A stage set features large painted chains hanging from tall, stone-textured walls and a structure with a central barred doorway. Three people stand in the foreground: one sits on a stool in light-colored clothing while two others wear military-style coats with feathered hats. A small stool and a rug lie on the stage floor in front of the backdrop.
Bartoletti, Bruno - Conductor - - - Has inscription
A black and white portrait displays a person from the chest up against a dark background. The individual is dressed in a textured blazer over a v-neck sweater, a collared shirt, and a dark necktie. Their hair is combed back, and they are looking toward the right. Handwritten text is present in the vertical white margin on the right side.
This black and white scene depicts a large cast gathered on a stage set with monumental Egyptian-style architecture, including tall columns and statues. Performers in period costumes line the stage while smoke and flames rise from vessels on an upper level. The backdrop includes a large archway, palm trees, and ornate carvings on the surrounding structures.
Brouwenstijn, Gre - Vocalist - soprano - Desdemona - Has inscription
A person stands on a set with steps and a painted backdrop, wearing a floor-length, high-waisted gown with patterned sleeves. The individual has styled dark hair adorned with a small tiara and wears a pearl-like necklace. Blue ink handwriting is visible across the front of the skirt.
Traubel, Helen - Vocalist - soprano - - Has inscription
A person is shown from the waist up in a black and white setting. They wear a dark V-neck top with a circular brooch on one side and have hair styled in two large rolls. One hand rests on a rounded, textured object at the bottom of the frame, and handwritten text appears in the upper right corner.
Del Monaco, Mario, 1915- - Vocalist - tenor - Andrea Chenier - Has inscription
Valentino, Frank - Vocalist - baritone - RoucherHas inscription
Warren, Leonard, 1911-1960 - Vocalist - baritone - Carlo Gerard - Has inscription
Carlo Gerard (r.) greets Chenier and Roucher
A black and white stage production features a large cast dressed in historical civilian and military costumes. Several individuals in the foreground hold rifles with bayonets, while one person stands apart with an arm raised in a gesture. A bridge and a stone archway form the background, with more people gathered on the bridge and a city silhouette visible through the arch.
Conley, Eugene, 1908-1981 - Vocalist - tenor - - Has inscription
A person with slicked-back hair and a mustache is shown in black and white from the chest up. The person wears a pinstripe suit, a white dress shirt, and a patterned necktie. Handwritten text is visible in the bottom right corner, and a studio mark is in the bottom left corner.
Carmen with Giulietta Simionato and Giuseppe Di Stefano
Di Stefano, Giuseppe, 1921- - Vocalist - tenor - Don Jose - Has inscription
Simionato, Giulietta - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - CarmenHas inscription
Act 1, arrest of Carmen: Don Jose (on steps l.), Carmen, and Zuniga (r.)
Performers in historical costumes and military-style uniforms are arranged across a theatrical set designed to look like a town square with large stone walls, stairs, and balconies. The scene includes several signatures written in white ink over the foreground and background. A small credit line is located in the bottom left corner of the frame.
Royal Opera House (London, England) - Building - - -
London (England) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This black-and-white view shows an interior dining room with a long table set for several people. A tall, patterned curtain hangs within a large arch on the left wall, while an ornate crystal chandelier hangs from the patterned ceiling. In the background, an open doorway reveals a staircase and a second chandelier in an adjacent room.
Gedda, Nicolai - Vocalist - tenor - Anatol -
This black and white portrait shows a person from the chest up against a plain, light background. The subject has dark, wavy hair styled away from the face and wears a dark jacket over a light-colored cravat tied in a bow. The person's head is slightly turned, looking toward the side of the frame.
Ormandy, Eugene, 1899-1985 - Conductor - - - Has inscription
A person with short dark hair on the sides and a balding crown is depicted in a close-up view wearing a dark high-collared garment. Handwritten text and a date are visible in the upper left corner, and a small musical staff with notes is drawn on the right. A studio signature appears in the bottom left corner against a plain, light-colored background.
Carteri, Rosanna - Vocalist - soprano - Liu -
A person with dark hair and heavy eyeliner stands before a stone wall wearing a long-sleeved, light-colored tunic. Their hands are clasped together in front of their chest. Text at the bottom of the black and white scene identifies the performance as Turandot in 1958.
In this black and white scene, a person wears a dark fur coat, leather gloves, and a small hat with straight bangs. One gloved hand is raised in a wave, while the other hand holds a clutch bag against the coat. The background contains the side of an airplane with partial lettering visible.
Evangelista, Lucia - Vocalist - soprano - Violetta - Has inscription
A person stands in a black and white studio portrait wearing a voluminous off-the-shoulder gown with ruffled tiers and floral accents. The person has dark hair styled in rolls and wears pearls and a bracelet. Cursive handwriting is scrawled across the skirt, and a studio signature is visible in the bottom right corner.
Backhaus, Wilhelm, 1884-1969 - Instrumentalist - piano - - Has inscription
A black and white portrait shows an individual with light hair wearing a suit, collared shirt, and patterned tie. The subject's gaze is directed toward the upper right of the frame, and the lower portion of the foreground is out of focus. On the right, blue handwriting includes the name Wilhelm Backhaus and the date February 21, 1955.
Der Ring des Nibelungen. Götterdämmerung, Act II
A large ensemble of people wearing tunics and holding long spears is arranged in a semi-circle at the back of a stage. In the foreground, several individuals in distinct attire, including a long light-colored gown and a dark cloak, stand on a circular platform. The background consists of a screen displaying a wavy, cloud-like pattern.
A person is shown from the waist up wearing a dark tuxedo jacket, a white wing-collar shirt, and a white bow tie. The individual has short, light-colored hair and wears round eyeglasses while looking off-camera. One hand rests on a horizontal surface in the bottom foreground against a neutral, shaded background.
Dallas Symphony Orchestra - Ensemble - - -
A black and white view features a full orchestra and a conductor on a stage. The conductor stands on a central podium while musicians are seated in rows with various instruments, including strings, brass, and a harp. A backdrop of vertical light and dark stripes fills the rear of the stage under a structured ceiling.
Simoneau, Léopold - Vocalist - tenor - Alfredo Germont - Has inscription
A person sits in a chair constructed from rough wood while looking at a document held in both hands. The person wears a dark, long-sleeved coat and trousers. A rustic wooden table beside them holds an ornate quill stand, papers, and a small box against a dark backdrop.
Oliver Smith's sketch for Martha, Act I, scene 1
Act 1, scene 1 -- Sketch by Oliver Smith
An elaborate glass and metal conservatory is situated in a garden landscape. Inside the structure are small tables and chairs, while a multi-story brick building stands to the left. Detailed, stylized trees, an open iron gate, and a swing hanging from a branch frame the outdoor area.
Ormandy, Eugene, 1899-1985 - Conductor - - -
A person stands behind a dark podium with a music stand and papers in the foreground. They wear a light-colored long-sleeved shirt tucked into pleated trousers with a dark belt. One arm is extended upwards with the hand open, while the other arm is bent across the torso against a solid black background.
Grant Park Band Shell with Chicago skyline
Grant Park Band Shell (Chicago, Ill.) - Building - - -
Grant Park (Ill.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
Chicago (Ill.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This black and white view shows an orchestra performing under a tiered, semi-circular bandshell for a large audience seated in an open park. A dense skyline of skyscrapers rises above a tree-lined horizon in the distance, while a large fountain is visible to the right. People are spread across the foreground and middle ground, both in organized rows and standing in open areas.
A crowd of people in period dress stands on a wooden stage floor covered with white petals. In the foreground, four individuals in long white robes carry a flower-adorned litter supporting a statue of a figure holding an infant. The remaining figures wear traditional attire, including long tiered skirts, dark vests, and various white head coverings.
Tozzi, Giorgio - Vocalist - bass - Pimen -
A person with a long gray beard wears a dark robe and a skullcap while seated at a table. They hold a white quill pen over an open book with their head turned toward the side. A single lit candle in a holder stands to the right, casting light onto the person and the book.
Piatigorsky, Gregor, 1903-1976 - Instrumentalist - violoncello - - Has inscription
A person is shown from the chest up in profile, looking toward the upper right while holding the neck of a cello. The individual wears a light-colored, patterned suit jacket over a collared shirt and dark tie. A handwritten signature is positioned in the upper right corner, and text at the bottom credits the work to Ruth Orkin.
Siepi, Cesare - Vocalist - bass - Alvise Badoero -
A person in ornate historical dress is depicted from the torso up against a neutral background. They wear a patterned robe with white fur trim and a large circular medallion featuring a crest. The individual has styled hair, a thin mustache, and a pointed beard, and their arms are folded across their chest.
Johnson, Thor - Conductor - - - Has inscription
A black and white studio portrait shows a person from the chest up against a solid background. The subject wears clear-framed glasses, a dark suit jacket, a light-colored collared shirt, and a dark necktie. Handwritten text is inscribed on the right side, and a studio signature is visible in the bottom left corner.
Dunn, Mignon - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Preziosilla -
This black and white scene shows a group of people wearing 18th-century European costumes during a theatrical performance. A central figure stands on a raised platform with hands on hips while others kneel or stand around them on a stage. The background set includes large columns and stone-textured walls.
Elman, Mischa, 1891-1967 - Instrumentalist - violin - - Has inscription
A person in a dark suit holds a violin and bow in a playing position. A large shadow of the individual and the instrument is cast against the wall behind them. Handwritten text is present on the right side, and printed markings are visible in the bottom corners.
Weede, Robert - Vocalist - baritone - Baron Scarpia - Has inscription
A person wearing a light-colored wig and dark clothing with lace ruffles sits at a desk while holding a quill pen. An inkwell containing a second quill sits on the desk next to a piece of paper. Handwritten text and a signature dated 1952 appear in the upper right area of the background.
Palazzo Ducale (Venice, Italy) - Building - - -
Venice (Italy) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
Performance of Verdi's Requiem -- Courtyard of Ducal Palace
An orchestra and choir perform in a grand courtyard surrounded by multi-story buildings featuring gothic arches, statues, and domes. Rows of people are seated in chairs across the stone pavement, facing the musical ensemble. The architectural setting includes detailed facades and a large dome visible in the background under the night sky.
Corena, Fernando - Vocalist - bass - Bartolo (Nozze di Figaro) - Has inscription
A person wearing an 18th-century period costume, including a powdered wig and a decorative waistcoat, holds a cane and a pair of metal tongs. Their clothing features lace cuffs and a white cravat. Handwritten ink text is inscribed over the lower right of the subject against a plain background.
Mitropoulos, Dimitri, 1896-1960 - Conductor - - - Has inscription
A person stands next to a piano with their arms resting on the instrument while holding a thin baton. They wear a light-colored, short-sleeved shirt with a dark necktie and a metal bracelet on one wrist. Open sheet music sits on the music stand of the piano, and a handwritten signature with the date 1954 is visible on the person's trousers.
Serkin, Rudolf, 1903- - Instrumentalist - piano - -
Signed, handwritten letter from Rudolf Serkin
White stationery with a Chicago's Bismarck Hotel logo features a handwritten note in blue ink. The text, addressed to Warren Perry, expresses gratitude for a previous letter and its contents. The note concludes with well wishes and a signature by Rudolf Serkin in the bottom right corner.
Vronsky, Vitya - Instrumentalist - piano - - Has inscription
Babin, Victor, 1908-1972 - Instrumentalist - piano -
Two people in formal wear stand behind the inner frame of a grand piano, with its metal plate and strings in the foreground. One person wears a tuxedo with a white bowtie and leans their head on a hand, while the other person wears a dark dress and rests their hand on the piano. Handwritten blue ink inscriptions are visible on the white background above and to the right of the subjects.
Detroit Symphony Orchestra - Ensemble - - -
A large group of musicians sits with their instruments on a multi-leveled stage in a theater. A conductor stands at the center on a small platform facing the group. The background features a large, dark stage curtain with decorative trim and hanging fabric panels.
Eleanor Steber as Tosca with Barry Morrell as Cavaradossi
Steber, Eleanor - Vocalist - soprano - Tosca -
Morell, Barry - Vocalist - tenor - Cavaradossi
A black and white theatrical setting features two people on a patterned chaise longue. One person in a light-colored shirt and dark trousers leans back, while another person in a dark gown with embroidery and a pearl necklace leans over them. The background includes a table with objects and a third person standing in the distance under stage lighting.
Teatro alla Scala (right half of interior)
Milan (Italy) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A large theater interior features several tiers of ornate balconies and a ground floor area, all densely occupied by people in formal attire. The balconies are decorated with intricate carvings and floral garlands, with small light fixtures spaced along the railings. Most of the audience is oriented toward a stage area visible on the left side of the frame.
Steber, Eleanor - Vocalist - soprano - Manon (Manon Lescaut) - Has inscription
Tucker, Richard, 1913-1975 - Vocalist - tenor - Des Grieux (Manon Lescaut)Has inscription
The scene portrays a staged production featuring a village square with stone buildings, a large tree, and a central staircase. Two individuals in elaborate historical dress stand in the foreground, surrounded by several other costumed figures positioned throughout the square. Cursive signatures and a copyright credit are visible across the bottom of the frame.
Garatti, Maria Teresa - Instrumentalist - piano - -
Member of I Musici -- Reverse stamped: Hurok Attractions, NY
A person with dark, wavy hair is shown in profile seated at a grand piano. They wear a dark, patterned short-sleeved garment and have their hands positioned on the keyboard. The background features a light-colored wall with decorative molding.
Teatro dell'opera (Rome, Italy) - Building - - -
Rome, Italy -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A large crystal chandelier is suspended from the center of a circular domed ceiling featuring murals of various figures. Decorative molding separates the dome from the lower theater levels, which include several tiers of arched balconies. Smaller chandeliers hang from the edges of these balconies above the main floor.
Skolovsky, Zadel - Instrumentalist - piano - -
A black and white studio portrait shows a person from the waist up wearing a dark, textured suit jacket over a light-colored dress shirt and a striped tie. The person has dark hair styled away from the face and is looking directly forward. Their hands are resting in front of them, with one arm laid across the other. A signature and identification number appear in the bottom left corner.
Cerquetti, Anita - Vocalist - soprano - Elvira -
Del Monaco, Mario, 1915- - Vocalist - tenor - Ernani
Act 3: Elvira (l. of center), Ernani (r. of center)
This black and white scene depicts a large group of people in ornate historical attire gathered on a stage. The stage is flanked by two large stone-patterned pillars and features a large grid-like structure suspended from the ceiling. Performers are positioned in groups on either side of the stage floor, while several individuals stand in the central area before a large decorated doorway. Heraldic banners and flags are visible behind the groups of people on both sides.
Lipton, Martha - Vocalist - soprano - Lola - Has inscription
Milanov, Zinka - Vocalist - soprano - SantuzzaHas inscription
Tucker, Richard, 1913-1975 - Vocalist - tenor - Turiddu - Has inscription
Three individuals in costumes stand on a stage set representing a village street with a large stone archway and a building with a tiled roof. On the left, a person in a light-colored dress stands with an open mouth near a set of stairs. Two other performers stand in the center of the scene, one wearing a suit and the other in a dark gown and headpiece.
This black and white view depicts the interior of a large theater from an elevated gallery. Multiple levels of curved balconies with arched openings line the walls, and a large, ornate box with a draped canopy sits on the right side. Rows of empty chairs fill the ground floor, while chandeliers hang from the arched ceiling at the top of the frame.
Lauri-Volpi, Giacomo, 1892- - Vocalist - tenor - Radames - Has inscription
A person stands in a profile pose wearing a decorated ancient Roman-style costume, including a patterned cuirass, fringed skirt, and cross-laced footwear. The individual has arms crossed and wears a narrow band around the forehead. Handwritten script is located in the top left corner, while the name "LAURI VOLPI" is printed in the lower right corner.
Reiner, Fritz, 1888-1963 - Conductor - - - Has inscription
A person with slicked-back hair is shown from the torso up wearing a dark suit, vest, and patterned tie. They sit at a desk with papers resembling a musical score and hold a pair of dark-rimmed glasses in both hands. A green handwritten signature appears on the left side of the frame, and a photographer's mark is in the bottom right corner.
Labò, Flaviano - Vocalist - tenor - Cavaradossi -
A person with dark wavy hair looks to the side in a black-and-white studio portrait. They are wearing a dark velvet coat with a wide collar and a white ruffled cravat pinned with a brooch. One hand is placed on a knee while the subject is posed against a light, plain background.
Tebaldi, Renata - Vocalist - soprano - Tosca - Has inscription
London, George, 1920- - Vocalist - bass-baritone - Baron Scarpia
A performance takes place on an ornate stage featuring a large desk, a sofa, and a table set for two. A person in a long gown stands behind the desk with one arm raised while another person lies on the floor nearby. The background consists of dark paneled walls with a curtained alcove and wall-mounted candelabras. Blue handwriting is visible across the lower portion of the foreground.
Madeira, Jean - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Carmen - Has inscription
A person with dark hair and makeup wears a tall, floral-patterned lace mantilla over their head. Two large roses are pinned near the ear, and the person wears decorative hanging earrings. Handwritten cursive text on the lower left side contains a dedication to Dr. Warren Perry, signed Jean Madeira.
Tagliavini, Ferruccio, 1913- - Vocalist - tenor - Faust (Mefistofele) - Has inscription
A black and white portrait features a person dressed in a historical costume with a wide lace collar and a decorative chain. The individual has light-colored eyes, a thin mustache with curled ends, and a pointed goatee. A signature in blue cursive ink is written across the upper left corner of the frame.
Rubinstein, Artur, 1887- - Instrumentalist - piano - - Has inscription
A person is shown from the shoulders up in a black and white portrait, wearing a dark suit, striped shirt, and tie. Handwritten cursive text in blue ink is inscribed across the subject's clothing, dated 1947. Small numbers are visible in the lower-left corner against a plain, light background.
Maria Callas as Leonora in Il Trovatore in Chicago Lyric Opera's production of 1955
Callas, Maria, 1923-1977 - Vocalist - soprano - Leonora - Has inscription
This black and white portrait shows a person in profile wearing an elaborate dark headpiece with high arches and draped fabric. The person has dark hair and wears a dark garment with a decorative, light-colored trim along the rounded neckline. Blue handwriting and a signature dated 1957 are visible in the upper right corner of the frame.
Miller, Mildred, 1924- - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Cherubino - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person in profile wearing a decorated jacket and trousers with embroidered leaf designs. The person's hair is styled in waves with a bow, and their hands are raised to hold a ribbon. A handwritten note and signature from Mildred Miller, dated August 1956, are visible on the right side of the frame.
Kirsten, Dorothy, 1910-1992 - Vocalist - soprano - Manon (Manon Lescaut) - Has inscription
A black and white portrait features a person in an elaborate gown with lace sleeves and intricate embroidery. The person has blonde, curled hair and wears several pieces of jewelry, including large earrings, layered necklaces, and wide bracelets. They hold a decorative handheld mirror while looking downward, and a handwritten signature is visible in the lower left corner.
Purdue University Auditorium - Building - - -
Lafayette (Ind.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A large auditorium contains numerous rows of dark seats arranged in a wide curve toward a stage with closed curtains. The high ceiling has recessed lighting, and vertical panels line the curved side wall. Several doorways and a portion of a balcony are visible along the perimeter of the room.
Ritchard, Cyril, 1897-1977 - Vocalist - baritone - Don Andres Viceroy of Peru -
Act 3, scene 2: The Viceroy demands the whereabouts of 3 escaped prisoners
A group of performers in various attire, including military-style uniforms, tiered dresses, and ponchos with sombreros, are arranged across a stage set of a town square. The set features ornate buildings with curved facades, decorative windows, and a central fountain under a dark painted sky. Several individuals in uniforms stand in formation on the sides, while others in different clothing are gathered in the center.
Sumac, Yma - Vocalist - soprano - Lakme - Has inscription
A person stands in a studio setting wearing a light-colored, floor-length strapless gown embellished with dark, textured trim at the hips and a metallic centerpiece on the bodice. A long, sheer veil is draped over their head and held out to the sides by their outstretched arms. The person's face is tilted upward with eyes closed, and a blue signature is scrawled across the front of the skirt.
Tucker, Richard, 1913-1975 - Vocalist - tenor - Andrea Chenier - Has inscription
A black and white portrait features a person from the waist up wearing a white shirt with large ruffled cuffs and a dark sash. The person is looking toward the upper left with their hands held up in front of their chest. A handwritten inscription and signature are visible in the lower-left corner of the frame.
Stella, Antonietta - Vocalist - soprano - Cio-Cio-San - Has inscription
A person is shown from the chest up wearing a floral kimono and elaborate white theatrical makeup. Their hair is styled in a traditional manner with decorative floral ornaments. The individual holds a dark, pleated folding fan, and a signature in blue ink is visible across the front.
Franco Calabrese in Il convitato di Pietra
Dargomyzhski, Alexandr Sergeevich, 1813-1869
Calabrese, Franco - Vocalist - bass - -
A person wearing a tunic with a large lace collar and light-colored stockings sits on the ground. They hold a dark shoe in one hand while their other hand is raised with an open palm. One foot is in a stocking while the other wears a matching shoe, and another individual is partially visible in the background.
Arena (Verona, Italy) - Building - - -
A large ensemble of people in period attire is arranged on a multi-level stage framed by a wide arch. One central figure in a long gown stands with their back to the foreground, facing the larger group. In the lower-left foreground, another person in a cape stands by a desk, while handwritten signatures appear in the bottom right.
Reverse stamped: Conductor, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra
This black and white portrait shows a person from the shoulders up, looking off-center. They are wearing a dark jacket, a white wing-collar shirt, and a white bowtie. The person has short hair and round eyeglasses with transparent frames. A small watermark is located in the bottom right corner of the frame.
A large white miniature castle features multiple towers, stairs, and defensive walls. Figures dressed in medieval-style clothing and armor are positioned throughout the set, including on battlements and in the foreground. Some individuals carry round shields and spears, while a striped tent stands to the right.
Opera national de Paris Palais Garnier - Building - - -
Paris (France) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A wide, marble staircase serves as the focal point within a grand interior featuring ornate carvings and columns. Numerous people in formal evening attire descend the stairs, while individuals in ceremonial uniforms with plumed helmets are stationed along the steps and at the base. Tall, decorative light fixtures illuminate the scene, and a sign on the right indicates directions to theater seating.
French Government Tourist Office, (New York, N.Y.)
Munsel, Patrice, 1925- - Vocalist - soprano - Perichole -
Ritchard, Cyril, 1897-1977 - Vocalist - baritone - Don Andres Viceroy of Peru
Uppman, Theodor, 1920- - Vocalist - baritone - Paquillo
Act 1: The Viceroy officiates at the marriage of two tipsy street-singers
A group of performers stands on a stage against a backdrop of several tall, ornate building facades and overhead triangular banners. The cast wears a variety of costumes, including military style uniforms, formal dresses, and specialized outfits such as a wedding dress and a clown costume. Two individuals are being held up by other performers: one sits on a chair lifted on the left, and another stands on the shoulders of two people on the right.
Schuricht, Carl, 1880-1967 - Conductor - - -
A person is shown from the chest up wearing a dark jacket and a polka-dot bowtie. One hand holds a long, thin baton while the other hand is raised with an open palm toward the chest. The background consists of a detailed architectural ceiling with repeating geometric patterns.
Raimondi, Gianni - Vocalist - tenor - Pinkerton -
A person stands on a painted stage wearing a light-colored, buttoned uniform with epaulettes. The background features a stage set with a wooden bridge, a lantern, and a large stylized tree silhouette. This black and white scene shows the individual looking upward and to the side.
Moscow (Russia) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A large neoclassical building with an eight-column portico and a roof-top sculpture overlooks a wide city square. Vintage buses and cars drive along the paved roads while many people move across the sidewalks and crosswalks. Shadows are cast across the urban scene under bright light.
Roberta Peters with husband Bertram Fields
Peters, Roberta, 1930- - Vocalist - soprano - - Has inscription
Pictures with bridegroom Bertram Fields, New York hotel executive, shown on their departure for a belated honeymoon in Italy
Two people are positioned on the metal steps of an aircraft with the TWA logo visible in the background. One individual wears a patterned blazer, a necktie, and a cap, while the other wears a dress with a wide white collar and a matching hat. This second person holds a large, square box decorated with a ribbon, and a handwritten signature is visible across the lower right portion of the stairs.
Garden, Mary, 1879-1967 - Vocalist - soprano - - Has inscription
A person with light-colored hair is shown from the waist up wearing a dark jacket, a light-colored button-up shirt, a multi-strand pearl necklace, and a gathered hat with a feather. They are positioned beside a plant with light-colored roses. Handwritten text in blue ink is visible in the upper right corner, and a studio signature is in the lower right corner.
Schock, Rudolf, 1915- - Vocalist - tenor - Stolzing -
A theatrical stage scene features a person seated on an elaborate, dark metal throne with gothic-style spires and decorative carvings. The seated individual wears a light-colored tunic, dark tights, and tall boots, with their head tilted upward. Behind the throne, three other people in long, dark robes sit in a row on a raised platform. The entire scene is captured in black and white with stylized architectural elements in the background.
Fiedler, Arthur, 1894-1979 - Conductor - - -
A person with gray hair and a mustache is shown in a black and white profile from the waist up against a dark background. They hold a long, thin baton in one hand while the other hand is raised with an open palm. The individual wears a dark, long-sleeved shirt and looks toward the left side of the frame.
Björling, Jussi, 1911-1960 - Vocalist - tenor - Riccardo -
Hurley, Laurel - Vocalist - soprano - Oscar
Act 1, scene 1: a hall in the royal palace
A theatrical stage is framed by heavy dark curtains and features a set designed like a palace with high windows and a large central crest. Dozens of people in period-style attire are positioned across the stage, some standing in groups and others on a raised platform in the background. Ornate furniture and large candelabras are visible as part of the interior set design.
Rigal, Delia - Vocalist - soprano - Violetta - Has inscription
A person is posed outdoors with an open parasol in a black and white composition. The individual wears a light-colored, long-sleeved garment featuring a dark ribbon at the neck and a ruffled lower half. The parasol is decorated with lace trim and floral embroidery, and a handwritten signature is visible in the lower right foreground.
This black and white scene depicts several individuals in an indoor space with musical instruments. In the foreground, a person wearing a cardigan sits holding a lit cigarette with a visible trail of smoke. Another person stands behind them wearing a suit and dark sunglasses, while members of an orchestra are visible in the background.
Academy of Music (Philadelphia, Pa.) - Building - - -
Philadelphia (Pa.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A large black and white interior view of a theater shows four levels of curved balconies overlooking a ground floor filled with rows of seating. Intricate moldings and carvings decorate the balcony edges and support pillars, while a large chandelier hangs from a painted domed ceiling. Small lights are positioned along the balcony rails and pillars throughout the auditorium.
Traubel, Helen - Vocalist - soprano - Brunnhilde -
Act 2, arrival of Brunhilde at the hall of the Gibichungs
A group of people wearing armor, helmets, and capes are positioned across a theatrical stage with a painted mountain backdrop and a large sail. Many individuals hold spears and decorated shields while standing at various levels on the set. The scene is presented in black and white.
Stevens, Risë, 1913- - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Carmen - Has inscription
This black and white portrait displays a person with dark, curly hair adorned with flowers, set within a heavily carved frame. The subject wears large hoop earrings, multiple necklaces, and a light-colored top. Red handwritten text is scrawled across the lower portion of the portrait, reading "To Warren Perry With best wishes Risë Stevens."
Reverse: Guest conductor, season 1955-1956, Concertgebouworchestra
A person stands behind a music stand, performing conducting gestures. They hold a baton in one hand while the other hand is raised with an open palm. The individual wears a dark, long-sleeved garment over a collared shirt and tie. Three arched shapes appear in the upper left of the dark background.
Curtis-Verna, Maria, 1926- - Vocalist - soprano - Aida - Has inscription
This black and white studio portrait features a person wearing a patterned dress and ornate accessories against a plain background. The individual is posed looking upwards with their right hand held near the chest and a wide, decorated cuff visible on their left wrist. The dress has a repeating diamond pattern and a zigzag border along the neckline and straps, while an intricate headpiece rests on their dark, wavy hair. Handwritten script appears in the lower-left corner of the frame.
Stock, Frederick, 1872-1942 - Conductor/Instrumentalist - violin - -
Two people are positioned around a stand containing sheets of paper. One person, wearing a three-piece suit and tie, has their hands on the papers. The other person, wearing a dark sweater and white shirt, stands next to them looking toward the documents. The scene is presented in black and white with a dark background.
Boris Christoff and Margherita Roberti in Verdi's Don Carlos
Act II, Scene 2 -- Antonio Votto, conductor
This black and white theatrical scene displays a group of people wearing period-specific clothing on a stage. A person in the foreground wears a dark hat, a tunic with a chain, and dark hose while holding a thin cane. Several other figures are visible in the background, including one in a large gown and others in formal or military dress.
Angeles, Victoria de los - Vocalist - soprano - Cio-Cio-San - Has inscription
A person kneels in traditional Japanese-style attire consisting of a floral kimono and an ornate headpiece with tassels. They hold a decorated folding fan across their lap against a backdrop of a painted screen showing a landscape with trees. The black and white portrait also features a hand-written signature across the lower half of the subject.
Melchior, Lauritz - Vocalist - tenor - Tristan - Has inscription
A person in a theatrical warrior costume stands against a plain light background. The outfit includes a metal helmet with wings, a dark tunic over textured sleeves, a studded belt, and a long cape fastened by a chain. The individual holds a sword across their front, and blue ink handwriting is visible in the upper-left corner.
Frieda Hempel as Martha, with Margarete Ober as Nancy
Hempel, Frieda, 1885-1955 - Vocalist - soprano - Martha -
Arndt-Ober, Margarethe, 1885-1971 - Vocalist - contralto - Nancy
Two people stand in detailed period stage costumes against a dark background. The individual on the left wears a light-colored dress with vertical stripes and a headpiece with a large bow. The individual on the right wears a dark laced bodice over a lighter skirt and apron, topped with a wide-brimmed hat adorned with flowers. The setting appears to be a stage with a striped awning visible in the background.
Elena Nikolaidi and Nicolai Malko, conductor at Grant Park Band Shell final concert
Nikolaidi, Elena - Vocalist - contralto -
Grant Park final concert: Nikolaidi, Malko
An orchestra is situated on an elevated stage beneath a massive, tiered semicircular structure. A person stands on a podium facing the musicians, and an audience fills the seating area in the foreground. The scene is illuminated within the shell against a dark background.
Steber, Eleanor - Vocalist - soprano - Vanessa - Has inscription
A person wearing a textured white hat and matching stole with dark spots is positioned against a solid light background. The person has wavy, short hair and is looking forward with an open-mouthed expression showing teeth. A blue ink signature is written across the front of the white stole.