Giardino di Boboli (Florence, Italy) - Building - - -
Florence (Italy) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This black and white scene features a wide, open area leading to a terraced grassy hill. A central statue of a winged horse stands above a stone basin, with additional statues and small square hedges positioned along paths on the slope. Tall, dense trees frame the sides and crest of the hill under a light sky.
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
Nilsson, Birgit - Vocalist - soprano - Brunnhilde -
Schoeffler, Paul - Vocalist - baritone - Wotan
Two performers in draped costumes stand on a stage featuring a sloped ramp and rocky textures. One person in the foreground wears a long robe and holds a large wooden staff, while a second person wearing a crown and cape stands in the background on an incline. The black and white scene is illuminated with high-contrast lighting against a dark backdrop.
Warren, Leonard, 1911-1960 - Vocalist - baritone - Amonasro - Has inscription
A person stands in a three-quarter profile wearing a multi-layered, patterned costume that includes a cape and wide decorative wrist cuffs. They have short, curly light hair and a small beard, and their face features theatrical makeup. A handwritten signature is positioned on the left side of the frame. The background is neutral with a shadow cast to the left.
Picchi, Mirto - Vocalist - tenor - Tom Rakewell - Has inscription
A person in a period-style white shirt with a lace jabot and ruffles looks at a hanging birdcage containing a small bird. The ornate metal birdcage is suspended from a decorative stand in front of a backdrop with rectangular panels. A dark ink signature is written across the torso of the person in the black and white scene.
Borkh, Inge - Vocalist - soprano - Lady Macbeth - Has inscription
Weede, Robert - Vocalist - baritone - MacbethHas inscription
This black and white theatrical scene depicts a large group of people in robes and tunics positioned around a long table on a stage. Several tall, dark pillars rise toward the ceiling, while geometric shadows are cast across the back wall. Two white cursive signatures are present on the image, one in the top right and another in the bottom left.
A person in formal attire, including a dark jacket, white waistcoat, and glasses, is positioned against a solid black background. They hold a thin white baton in their right hand, which is elevated above their head. Their left arm is also raised with the hand held near their forehead. The scene is captured in black and white.
Rosanna Carteri as Zerlina with Rolando Panerai as Masetto
Carteri, Rosanna - Vocalist - soprano - Zerlina - Has inscription
Panerai, Rolando - Vocalist - bass - Masetto
Two people in period-style costumes stand together in front of a dark architectural doorway. One person wears a dark jacket with many buttons and a necktie, while the other wears a gown with ruffled sleeves and a square neckline. They are holding hands, and a signature is written across the lower right area.
Royal Opera House (London, England) - Building - - -
London (England) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A black and white interior features a high-ceilinged room with an ornate crystal chandelier hanging from a decorative ceiling rose. Two large framed paintings and floral wall moldings decorate the walls, while an intricate metal railing curves around a staircase landing. A floral arrangement on a pedestal stands beside a tall mirror that reflects a staircase.
An illuminated operatic stage at the Arena di Verona features a large architectural set under a dark night sky. The set includes multiple domes, arches, and stairways where various costumed performers are positioned. In the foreground, an orchestra is visible in a pit below the main performance area. Text in the bottom right corner identifies the location as Arena di Verona and the production as La Favorita.
Güden, Hilde - Vocalist - soprano - Gilda - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person looking toward the upper left with their hands held near their chest. The individual is wearing a dark beret and a dark coat over a garment with a ruffled white collar. To the right, handwritten text reads "With best wishes Hilde Gueden" against a background of ornate architectural patterns.
Audience seated in this area -- Taken from stage
A long stone building with numerous windows and a central portico overlooks a wide, light-colored courtyard. The foreground features a grassy slope with low-lying bushes and statues, while a dense city and mountain range are visible in the background.
Spivakovsky, Tossy, 1907- - Instrumentalist - violin - -
A person in formal wear plays a violin against a backdrop of dramatic studio lighting. The individual is dressed in a dark suit with a white bow tie, holding the instrument's bow against the strings. Handwritten text in the upper left corner is signed by Tossy Spivakovsky and dated 1952. The black and white composition features sharp angular shadows in the background.
Kempe, Rudolf, 1910-1976 - Conductor - - - Has inscription
A person in formal evening wear looks toward the side against a light background. The individual has dark, wavy hair and wears a white bowtie. A signature is visible in the top left corner, and a studio logo is located in the bottom right corner.
Teatro Colón (Buenos Aires, Argentina) - Building - - -
Buenos Aires (Argentina) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This grand hall displays neoclassical architectural elements including large, fluted columns with decorative capitals. A mezzanine level is lined with stone balustrades and sits below ornate friezes and high, arched structural details. In the foreground and background, wide staircases with curved railings are visible amidst the elaborate carvings and moldings that decorate the interior.
Guarrera, Frank, 1923- - Vocalist - baritone - Escamillo - Has inscription
This person is dressed in a heavily embroidered jacket and dark trousers, posing with a sword held upright. A long, dark, reflective cape is held in their other hand and spreads out onto the ground. The background is plain, and a blue ink signature dated 1952 is written across the right side.
Berry, Walter - Vocalist - bass-baritone - Figaro (Nozze di Figaro) - Has inscription
Schwarzkopf, Elisabeth - Vocalist - soprano - Countess AlmavivaHas inscription
Streich, Rita, 1920- - Vocalist - soprano - Susanna (Nozze di Figaro)
Wächter, Eberhard - Vocalist - baritone - Count Almaviva (Nozze di Figaro)
Watson, Chester - Vocalist - bass - Bartolo (Nozze di Figaro)
Act 2 (l. to r.): Schwarzkopf, Streich, Watson, Berry, Waechter -- Scenic production & design: Gerald Ritholz.
This theatrical production shows five people in historical attire on a stage adorned with elaborate white architectural structures and several pieces of furniture. A large chandelier hangs from the ceiling over the performers, who are arranged across the stage from a chaise lounge on the left to windowed facades on the right. The entire scene is enclosed within an ornate, scrolled border.
Giannini, Dusolina, 1902-1986 - Vocalist - soprano - - Has inscription
A person stands wearing a long dark gown with a white ruffled collar and wide, flared cuffs. The front of the dress contains a vertical white strip accented with black bows, and the person's hair is parted in the middle and pulled back. They are positioned on a patterned rug against a neutral backdrop with their head tilted slightly upward.
Angeles, Victoria de los - Vocalist - soprano - Lady Harriet -
Act 1, scene 1: Harriet with Corps de Ballet
A black and white theatrical scene depicts several people in elaborate historical costumes on a stage. One individual in a light-colored dress stands with arms raised in the center, flanked by others in striped and patterned attire. The set includes a large wire dome structure on the left and a tall frame on the right, positioned before a painted backdrop of a rolling landscape under a dark, cloudy sky.
Bing, Rudolf, Sir, 1902- - Person (other) - Manager - - Has inscription
A person is shown from the chest up in a black and white portrait, wearing a dark suit, white shirt, and dark tie. The individual has a receding hairline and is looking toward the right side of the frame. A handwritten signature is visible on the right, and a name is printed in the bottom right corner.
Schmitt-Walter, Karl, 1900- - Vocalist - baritone - Beckmesser -
Wiener, Otto - Vocalist - baritone - Hans Sachs
Several performers are positioned on a stone-paved ground under a dark sky with foliage in the background. In the foreground, one person wears a long robe and holds two flat wooden objects, while another wears a dark tunic and tights and holds a long-necked stringed instrument. Other figures wearing light-colored clothing and caps are visible in the background.
Homer, Louise, 1871-1947 - Vocalist - contralto - - Has inscription
Signed: Homeland, 1927 -- Obtained from collection of Orchestra Hall, Chicago
A person with short wavy hair is shown from the shoulders up, facing forward against a dark background. They wear a double-strand pearl necklace over a dark garment. A handwritten signature in the bottom right corner reads "Sincerely yours, Louise Homer."
Fiedler, Arthur, 1894-1979 - Conductor - - - Has inscription
Signed: 1956 -- Reverse: Guest conductor, 75th Anniversary Season, 1955-56 -- Reverse stamped: Berkshire Festival, Boston Symphony Orchestra
A person with short hair and a mustache is depicted from the side, wearing a dark suit jacket and white collared shirt. They hold a thin baton in one hand over a set of musical scores, while their other hand rests on the bottom edge of the paper. Handwritten white text appears on the right side of the dark background, containing a signed message to Dr. J. Warren Perry dated 1956.
Bergonzi, Carlo - Vocalist - tenor - Don Jose - Has inscription
A person is shown from the waist up wearing a ceremonial military-style uniform with fringed epaulettes and horizontal stripes across the chest. One hand is gloved in white and holds the hilt of a sword. The subject has short dark hair and faces slightly away from the camera against a neutral background with handwritten script in the upper left.
Fedora Barbieri as Adalgisa with Anita Cerquetti as Norma
Barbieri, Fedora - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Adalgisa -
Cerquetti, Anita - Vocalist - sopranorma
A theatrical production features two individuals in floor-length costumes positioned amidst a set of jagged rock-like structures and leafless branches. The person on the left has long dark hair and an open mouth, while the person on the right wears a patterned gown and looks toward the ground. Text in the bottom left corner reads "TEATRO COMUNALE FIRENZE Foto Locchi."
Lipp, Wilma - Vocalist - soprano - Pamina -
A performance is set on a stone stage surrounded by architectural ruins and tall columns. Multiple individuals are positioned across the space, dressed in matching white robes and pointed white headgear. A central pair stands near a stone archway, with one individual wearing a robe featuring a sun-like emblem on the chest.
Güden, Hilde - Vocalist - soprano - Rosalinde -
Peters, Roberta, 1930- - Vocalist - soprano - Adele
Uppman, Theodor, 1920- - Vocalist - baritone - Dr. Falke
A black and white scene features three people on a stage set depicting a decorated interior room. On the right, a person in a ruffled gown stands with their mouth open. In the center, a person wearing a dark suit and a long cape stands near a small table. To the left, a person in a checkered garment and an apron stands behind a tea cart against a backdrop of floral wallpaper and framed portraits.
Edinburgh International Festival - Festival - - -
A formal procession moves along a cobblestone street lined with multi-story stone buildings and spectators. The lead person wears a top hat and a chain of office while carrying a ceremonial mace. Several participants follow in robes, fur-lined capes, or historical military uniforms carrying polearms. Spectators stand along the sidewalk in front of storefronts like Stewart's Arcade and Star Mission.
A group of dancers in white tutus perform on a stage surrounded by gothic-style arches and a raised platform. Numerous figures in various costumes stand on the balcony and at the sides of the stage while the central performers are posed in the middle. The background displays dark, geometric patterns within the arched structures of the set.
Genoa (Italy) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
The interior of a large, semi-circular structure displays significant destruction with missing roof sections and crumbling walls. Multiple levels of uniform, rectangular openings line the interior perimeter, and a single stone arch spans the gap at the top. Piles of rubble, stones, and twisted metal debris are scattered across the floor in the foreground.
Serkin, Rudolf, 1903- - Instrumentalist - piano - - Has inscription
A person in profile is seated at a piano wearing a dark suit and white bowtie. The cursive name "Rudolf Serkin" and date "Nov. 23rd 1953" are inscribed in the center of the frame. The background is a dark gradient, and the subject wears glasses while looking down toward the keys.
Teatro dell'opera (Rome, Italy) - Building - - -
Rome, Italy -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This black and white scene captures the interior of a large, ornate opera house filled with a large audience. In the foreground, an orchestra sits with instruments while a conductor stands on a podium. The seating area includes a crowded main floor and four tiers of balconies arranged in a circular fashion beneath an arched ceiling.
A raised stage depicts an ornate indoor setting with a large central archway and patterned wall panels. On the right side, individuals in period dress are arranged around a long table set for a meal. To the left, a group of musicians in ruff-collared attire sits on the platform with their instruments. Two figures in striped costumes stand at attention on steps leading to the background arch.
Weede, Robert - Vocalist - baritone - Macbeth -
This black and white theatrical scene features a single person standing centrally on a series of wide steps. A large group of individuals wearing robes and head coverings is gathered on the floor to the left. The background is dominated by a large backdrop showing abstract vertical and diagonal shapes.
Thelma Votipka as Marthe Schwerlein in Faust
Votipka, Thelma - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Martha Schwerlein - Has inscription
A person is shown from the shoulders up wearing a dark feathered hat and a cape with a large satin bow. The individual has dark curly hair and faces forward. There is red handwritten text in the upper right corner and a signature in the lower right corner.
Royal Festival Hall (London) - Building - - -
The Royal Festival Hall features a large, vertically ribbed facade with its name prominently displayed. In the foreground, two people hold hands while walking across an open space toward the viewer. The area between them and the building is filled with trees, garden beds, and individuals seated on benches.
Berry, Walter - Vocalist - bass-baritone - Guglielmo - Has inscription
A person wears a wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap and a light-colored jacket decorated with dark pom-poms and ruffled sleeves. The individual has a thin, upturned mustache and holds one hand near their face with fingers extended horizontally. This black and white portrait includes a handwritten signature across the center and a small logo in the bottom right corner.
Arena (Verona, Italy) - Building - - -
This wide black and white view shows an outdoor amphitheater filled with a large audience under a dark night sky. A lit stage at one end features a detailed architectural set and several groups of performers. Text in the upper right corner identifies the location and year as the Arena di Verona during the 1937 opera season.
Cliburn, Van, 1934 - Instrumentalist - piano - -
A person with wavy hair wears a suit and bow tie while positioned in profile at a piano keyboard. Their hands are placed on the keys against a dark, solid background. This monochromatic composition focuses on the subject's upper body and the front of the instrument.
New York Philharmonic - Ensemble - - -
A large orchestra performs on a wooden stage in a hall featuring decorative wall panels and a large draped curtain. Musicians are arranged in rows, playing various instruments including strings, brass, and percussion. The individuals are dressed in dark formal suits and use music stands to read their scores.
Siepi, Cesare - Vocalist - bass - Don Giovanni -
A person wears a black and white historical costume featuring a ruffled collar and sleeves with dark, zigzag patterned trim. They hold a thin fencing sword horizontally across their chest with both hands. The individual has dark hair with a white streak and a pointed beard. The background is a solid, light color.
William Wildermann as Old Hebrew in Samson and Dalila
Wildermann, William - Vocalist - bass - Old Hebrew - Has inscription
A person in a costume with long white hair and a beard wears a dark turban and a dark, striped robe. Their hands are clasped together at chest level as they look toward the side. Handwritten text and yellow stains are present on the left side of the background.
Ganz, Rudolph, 1877-1972 - Conductor/Instrumentalist - piano - - Has inscription
A black and white studio portrait features a person from the waist up against a dark background wearing a double-breasted suit and tie. Handwritten cursive text across the middle of the frame includes the name Rudolph Ganz and the date 1950. A studio mark reading "BLACKSTONE STUDIOS, Inc" is located in the bottom right corner.
Paray, Paul, 1886- - Conductor - - - Has inscription
Reverse: Conductor, Detroit Symphony Orchestra
A monochrome profile portrait shows a person facing the left against a neutral background. The person wears a patterned suit jacket with a white pocket square, a light-colored dress shirt, and a dark necktie with a diagonal pattern. Handwritten ink is visible in the upper left corner, while a small copyright mark and the name "CLINEDINST" appear in the bottom right corner.
This black and white theater set depicts a cobbled outdoor platform where two people sit at a small table. The stage is bordered by low lattice fences and includes a large hanging floral arrangement and a bench. Simple line drawings of narrow buildings are visible on the background behind the platform.
Barnett, John, 1917- - Conductor - - -
Reverse: associate conductor Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra and guest conductor 1955-56 season.
This black and white studio portrait shows a person from the chest up, positioned at a slight angle while facing the camera. They wear a dark, structured suit jacket with a white pocket square, a light-colored collared shirt, and a patterned necktie. Their dark hair is slicked back and parted to the side, and the background is a solid, light-toned gradient.
Tebaldi, Renata - Vocalist - soprano - Desdemona -
A black and white theatrical stage performance features a large group of people in historical costumes standing between two classical stone archways. At the top of the frame, draped fabric and a central crest are visible above the ensemble. The people in the background carry banners and spears, while several figures in the foreground wear elaborate robes and gowns. A painted backdrop behind the group depicts a cloudy sky.
Lazzari, Virgilio - Vocalist - bass - Archibaldo - Has inscription
A person is shown from the chest up wearing a dark, textured robe with detailed embroidery. They have shoulder-length wavy hair and a long, white, curly beard. Their face is covered in heavy stage makeup, and white handwriting is visible across the lower half of the frame.
This black and white scene depicts a large-scale performance at the Arena di Verona in 1956. Numerous people in costume are distributed across several levels of a vast stage set that includes wide staircases, banners, and statues. An orchestra pit is visible in the foreground, and the tiered stone seating of the arena rises towards the top of the frame against a dark sky.
Madeira, Jean - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Carmen - Has inscription
A person with dark hair wears a large flower hairpiece and an ornate lace mantilla. They are dressed in a strapless lace top and large circular earrings while looking downward. Blue ink handwriting is inscribed diagonally across the lower half, and white text in the bottom left corner reads "Maurice Seymour Chicago" and "'Carmen'".
A person in a long dark coat, sash, and boots stands on a stage with an outstretched hand. In the background, a group of people wearing patterned clothing sit or stand near a large architectural set piece. Decorative arches and a candelabra are visible against the dark walls of the performance space.
Callas, Maria, 1923-1977 - Vocalist - soprano - Amina - Has inscription
A person wearing a floor-length gown with three-quarter sleeves is positioned in the center of a stage. The background consists of a rustic wooden structure and a large water wheel against a painted rock setting. Text at the bottom identifies the performer and production, while a handwritten signature is visible across the person's skirt.
Swarthout, Gladys, 1904- - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - -
This black and white portrait shows a person looking upward and to the side against a solid background. The individual has dark, chin-length hair styled in curls and wears a floral-patterned garment with a geometric necklace, a bracelet, and a brooch. Text at the bottom margin identifies the person as "GLADYS SWARTHOUT, mezzo-soprano" and includes professional contact information.
Ricci, Ruggiero, 1918- - Instrumentalist - violin - -
A person is shown in profile from the chest up, looking down at a violin with their chin on the instrument. One hand is visible holding a bow against the strings. Text at the bottom edge identifies the subject as Ruggiero Ricci and provides agency information for the National Concert and Artists Corporation.
Raisa, Rosa, 1893-1963 - Vocalist - soprano - - Has inscription
A person is shown from the chest up in profile, positioned against a background featuring a soft circular light behind their head. Their dark hair is styled in a bun, and they wear a single pearl earring with a dark wrap over a light-colored garment. A jeweled brooch is visible at the center of the clothing, and handwritten text appears in the bottom right corner.
Conner, Nadine - Vocalist - soprano - Mimi - Has inscription
A person stands in front of a plain backdrop with a large shadow cast on the wall behind them. They wear a dark, long-sleeved dress, a fringed shawl over their shoulders, a striped apron, and high-heeled shoes with crisscross straps. Their right hand is raised, holding a small candle holder with a candle.
A person is shown from the waist up against a plain light background, oriented toward the left. They are dressed in a buttoned cardigan over a collared shirt and tie. One hand holds a thin vertical object while the other arm is extended forward with the hand open and palm down.
Berkshire Music Festival. Shed - Building - - -
Lenox (Mass.) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This black and white aerial view features a large, modern amphitheater with a crescent-shaped dark roof situated in a forested clearing. Numerous people are scattered across a wide grassy lawn in front of the building, which is framed by tall trees in both the foreground and background. A small parking lot containing several cars is located on the right side of the clearing.
Munsel, Patrice, 1925- - Vocalist - soprano - Gilda -
A person stands in front of a plain background wearing a dark period costume consisting of a buttoned doublet with a white collar, fitted trousers, and knee-high boots. They have short hair styled with waves, wear a dark beret, and hold a cloak over one arm. A signature is visible across the bottom of the portrait.
Scott, Norman - Vocalist - bass - Colline - Has inscription
This black and white portrait depicts a person in 19th-century period attire holding a small open book. The individual has light, wavy hair and dark makeup around the eyes, wearing a heavy overcoat and a dark cravat. A photographer's mark is in the bottom left corner, and a handwritten signature is visible in the bottom right.
Sved, Alexander, 1906- - Vocalist - baritone - Count di Luna of Aragon - Has inscription
A person in a detailed stage costume stands in a full-length studio portrait against a neutral background. The attire includes a dark cape, a sequined upper garment, a tunic with a diamond-patterned skirt section, and lace-up boots. Handwritten text in the top left corner contains a dedication signed "Alexander Sved" and dated "New York 1949." The person stands with their arms crossed over their chest and faces toward the side.
Renata Tebaldi as Amelia Grimaldi with Tito Gobbi as Simon Boccanegra
Tebaldi, Renata - Vocalist - soprano - Amelia Grimaldi -
Gobbi, Tito - Vocalist - baritone - Simon Boccanegra
Two people stand together in a dimly lit setting wearing elaborate, historical-style costumes. The person on the left wears a light-colored, long-sleeved garment with embroidery and long earrings while keeping their eyes closed. The person on the right has a beard and wears a dark, patterned tunic while holding the other person's hand.
Glyndebourne Opera House - Building - - -
In East Sussex -- Mansion and backstage buildings of the opera house from the lawns of the south
A sprawling stone estate building sits behind a wide, flat lawn under a sky with large clouds. The structure features various architectural wings with many mullioned windows and stone chimneys, with several tall, narrow evergreen trees planted near its base. Thinly-leaved tree branches frame the right foreground of the scene.
Di Stefano, Giuseppe, 1921- - Vocalist - tenor - Cavaradossi -
Tebaldi, Renata - Vocalist - soprano - Tosca
A large stage set represents an ornate cathedral interior with multiple arches, frescoes, and stone-like architecture. In the center, a decorative metal gate stands before a secondary altar area, while a statue sits in a niche to the right. Two people in costume stand near a wooden scaffolding on the far left.
Brouwenstijn, Gre - Vocalist - soprano - Desdemona - Has inscription
A person stands in the center of a stage wearing an ornate, light-colored gown with an empire waist, long decorated sleeves, and a low neckline. They wear a pearl necklace and a headpiece with a circular ornament above their hair. The background features wide steps and stylized, jagged set pieces. A cursive blue ink inscription covers the lower half of the gown.
Victoria De Los Angeles as Manon with Nicolai Gedda as Des Grieux
Angeles, Victoria de los - Vocalist - soprano - Manon (Manon) -
Gedda, Nicolai - Vocalist - tenor - Des Grieux (Manon)
Two individuals in historical clothing are positioned on a stage set that resembles an outdoor street scene. One person sits on a stone block wearing a patterned blouse and long skirt, while the other stands behind them in a buttoned coat, ruffled shirt, and tall boots. A dark stone pillar with climbing ivy stands in the foreground to the left.
A black and white portrait features a person from the shoulders up looking toward the upper left. The person has short hair, wears round-rimmed glasses, and is dressed in a dark suit jacket with a light-colored shirt and tie. Text at the bottom identifies the individual as Josef Krips, Conductor, and includes information for the National Concert and Artists Corporation.
Simionato, Giulietta - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Mignon -
A theatrical production is shown on a stage framed by heavy curtains and an ornate backdrop depicting a cityscape and stars. Three individuals dressed in period clothing are positioned in the center, with one person standing near a chair and another person kneeling over a third person on the floor. Various props are visible, including a desk with a lamp, wooden chairs, and large decorative carvings.
A black and white portrait shows a person from the chest up, looking toward the left against a dark, textured background. The individual has dark hair combed back and wears a dark suit jacket, a white collared shirt, and a patterned necktie. Shadows and light highlight the contours of the person's face.
Stevens, Risë, 1913- - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Octavian - Has inscription
A person is wearing an ornate, light-colored garment with lace and decorative buttons. Their light hair is styled in curls, and their hands rest on a hilt. A handwritten note on the left reads, "To Dr. Charles D. Perry With best wishes!" signed by Risë Stevens.
Gencer, Leyla - Vocalist - soprano - Francesca -
This black and white scene depicts a grand theatrical stage set with minimalist stone-textured structures. Two large pillars support a chevron-shaped archway above a central platform with crenelated edges and two flanking staircases. Tall candelabras with lit candles are positioned across the set, and a bed is placed on the lower right stage. One person stands at a lectern beside the bed while four others in light-colored robes sit together on the lower steps.
Terme di Caracalla (Rome, Italy) - Building - - -
This black and white view shows an outdoor theater venue constructed within ancient stone walls. Wooden benches fill the foreground, facing a stage area flanked by high, crumbling masonry towers and metal lighting rigs. Trees and a bright sky frame the scene, with several small people visible on the stage in the distance.
Elisabeth Schwarzkopf as Countess Almaviva
Schwarzkopf, Elisabeth - Vocalist - soprano - Countess Almaviva - Has inscription
A person wearing an intricate dark gown with light-colored flared sleeves stands on a set of broad stone-like stairs. The setting includes architectural details such as wall sconces with lit candles, wooden railings, and various pieces of furniture like an upholstered stool and a small table. This black and white scene features handwritten cursive script layered across the upper half of the frame.
Mitropoulos, Dimitri, 1896-1960 - Conductor - - - Has inscription
A person with a bald head and dark formal attire is captured in profile, looking toward the right. Their hands are clasped together in the foreground, and a signature with the date 1951 appears in blue ink over the bottom right corner. The background is dark, and there are visible crease marks on the left side of the print.
Schech, Marianne - Vocalist - soprano - Gutrune - Has inscription
A person with wavy hair wears a cylindrical metallic crown and a garment with thin diagonal stripes. They are shown from the chest up with makeup, including dark lipstick and defined eyebrows. A handwritten signature in blue ink is visible across the bottom left of the portrait.
A person in formal attire is featured in a black and white portrait, looking toward the right side of the frame. They have a bald head and are wearing round, thick-rimmed glasses along with a dark suit jacket, a white collared shirt, and a tie. The lighting is focused on one side of their face, creating a contrast against the dark, solid background.
Schech, Marianne - Vocalist - soprano - Sieglinde - Has inscription
A sepia-toned portrait shows a person with light-colored, wavy hair looking toward the left. The person has thin, arched eyebrows and wears dark lipstick. A signature in blue ink is written across the person's shoulder and chest.
Cassel, Walter - Vocalist - baritone - Baron Scarpia - Has inscription
A person is shown from the waist up in a monochrome portrait, wearing 18th-century style clothing and a white curled wig. They wear a dark coat with decorative buttons over a ruffled white shirt with lace cuffs, and they hold a small glass with dark liquid. Handwritten blue ink text is visible on the left side of the portrait above the name Julie LeBlond in the bottom corner.
Ettore Bastianini as Figaro in Barber of Seville
Bastianini, Ettore - Vocalist - baritone - Figaro (Barbiere di Siviglia) -
A person dressed in an ornate jacket, a ruffled shirt, knee-length breeches, and white stockings stands on a stage holding an acoustic guitar. They look upward while positioned in front of textured stage props and draped curtains. Text at the bottom right indicates the location is the Arena di Verona during the 1956 opera season.
Campora, Giuseppe - Vocalist - tenor - Edgardo - Has inscription
This black and white portrait features a person with styled hair and facial hair looking toward the right side. The subject wears a dark garment with a geometric pattern and a large, intricate white lace collar. Handwritten blue script is visible on the left side against a plain background.
Moskovskaia gosudarstvennaia konservatoriia im. P.I. Chaikovskogo - Building - - -
This black and white theatrical scene depicts a stage with numerous individuals in costumes. In the foreground, a large group of people is bowed low to the floor, while a person in a long robe stands with one hand raised. To the right, several people stand upright in a variety of clothing styles. The background features dark, vertical pointed structures hanging in front of a textured screen with a grid-like pattern.
Brownlee, John, 1901-1969 - Vocalist - baritone - Count Almaviva (Nozze di Figaro) - Has inscription
A person dressed in a period costume features an embroidered jacket, lace-trimmed sleeves, and a ruffled jabot. They hold a monocle up to their eye while their hair is styled in structured waves. A handwritten signature is visible across the lower right side of the subject's torso.
Uppman, Theodor, 1920- - Vocalist - baritone - Pelleas -
This black and white portrait features a person with curly hair wearing a costume with a short, pleated tunic and draped fabric over the shoulders. One hand is positioned near the neck, while the other rests at the side against the thigh. The person is looking upward against a plain, light-colored background.
Vienna (Austria) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A large pile of debris sits on the floor inside a damaged building with classical architecture. Chipped and broken fluted columns support a series of ornate arches and multiple levels of decorative balconies. Light enters through open spaces where walls and windows are missing.
Siepi, Cesare - Vocalist - bass - Don Giovanni - Has inscription
A person in a historical-style costume stands against a stone wall background. They wear a wide-brimmed hat with feathers, a quilted doublet with lace trim, and dark pants. One hand rests on the hilt of a sword at their waist, and a signature is visible in the bottom right corner.
Ganz, Rudolph, 1877-1972 - Conductor/Instrumentalist - piano - -
Reverse stamped: NBC Artists Service, NY
A seated person is positioned against a mottled, neutral background in this black and white portrait. They have short, slicked-back hair and a mustache, and are dressed in a dark suit jacket, white collared shirt, and dark necktie. White text identifying a studio and a serial number is visible in the lower left corner of the frame.
This black and white scene depicts a theatrical production within an outdoor arena at night. A large orchestra is positioned in a pit in the foreground, facing an illuminated stage with gothic-style architectural sets. In the background, the dark, tiered stone seating of the arena rises toward the sky. Text in the bottom right corner indicates the setting is Arena 1955, Verona.
Petri, Egon - Instrumentalist - piano - -
A person sits at a grand piano in a black and white portrait, shown in profile against a dark background. They wear a suit and bowtie, with their left hand resting on the white keys of the piano. Their right hand is positioned in the air just above the keyboard.
Christoff, Boris - Vocalist - bass - Boris Godunov - Has inscription
Two people in historical stage costumes are positioned on a dark set next to a high-backed wooden chair. One person stands wearing a patterned robe with a high collar and dark pants, while the other person leans forward in a long, fur-lined garment. A signature is written across the bottom white margin of the frame.
Del Monaco, Mario, 1915- - Vocalist - tenor - Otello -
Tebaldi, Renata - Vocalist - soprano - Desdemona
A stage production is set with two individuals in historical costumes standing in the lower left area of the stage. On either side are large stone-like structures with arched openings and columns, while a large, folded curtain fills the background. Decorative fabric swags with a central crest-like ornament hang above the stage.
Monte Carlo (Monaco) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
A grayscale view of a grand auditorium shows rows of individual chairs facing a wall with a central box and side balconies. The interior is decorated with intricate sculptures of human-like figures, garlands, and patterned fabrics. Three circular recesses are positioned at the top of the highly detailed wall among carved moldings.
Fisher, Sylvia, 1910-1996 - Vocalist - soprano - Marschallin - Has inscription
A sepia-toned portrait shows a person in an elaborate costume wearing a floral headpiece and a gown with large ruffled sleeves and a high lace collar. The attire is accessorized with a large jeweled necklace and earrings, with a signature written in dark ink on the left side of the torso. The person is posed against a plain, neutral background.
Jon Vickers as Siegmund with Gre Brouwenstijn as Sieglinde
Vickers, Jon - Vocalist - tenor - Siegmund - Has inscription
Brouwenstijn, Gre - Vocalist - soprano - Sieglinde
A black and white scene displays two individuals in costumes against a dark background. One person stands behind the other with a hand on their shoulder, while the seated person tilts their head back. A cursive signature is layered over the lower half of the people.
Barbieri, Fedora - Vocalist - mezzo-soprano - Amneris -
A person in an elaborate costume stands prominently on a raised platform. They wear a crown over a veil and a long gown decorated with a wide, patterned sash featuring symbols. Other individuals in various costumes are visible in the background.
Opera national de Paris Palais Garnier - Building - - -
Paris (France) -- Buildings, structures, etc.
This black and white view shows the grand facade of an ornate building with a large central dome and several sculptures on the roof. The structure features a row of columns and several arched doorways at ground level. In the open square in front of the building, numerous vintage automobiles and a bus are parked or moving, while pedestrians walk across the pavement.
French Government Tourist Office, (New York, N.Y.)
This black and white view shows a multi-story neoclassical building with an intricate facade featuring columns, sculptures, and detailed relief panels. A dark, rounded canopy covers an entrance on the left, while several people stand or walk along the sidewalk in the foreground. Multiple arched windows and balconies are visible across the building's exterior, which is set against a clear sky with overhead wires.
Sereni, Mario - Vocalist - baritone - Carlo Gerard -
A person is depicted from the chest up, wearing a detailed historical costume that includes epaulettes with fringe and a ruffled shirt. Their dark hair is styled in rolls above the ears, and they feature an open-mouthed facial expression with eyes wide. The monochrome composition includes a plain background and a signature in the bottom right corner.
Peters, Roberta, 1930- - Vocalist - soprano - Adele -
A person wearing a checkered shirt, white ruffled apron, and a white headpiece holds a dark feather duster diagonally across their chest. They have short dark hair styled in curls and a beauty mark on their cheek. The background is a solid light color, and the frame is monochromatic.
Zinka Milanov as Leonora in Il Trovatore
Milanov, Zinka - Vocalist - soprano - Leonora -
This black and white portrait features a person in a hooded cloak and a dress with a high collar. Their gaze is directed upward and to the side while one hand rests on their chest. The background is plain and light-colored, with a copyright mark in the bottom right corner.
Merrill, Robert, 1917- - Vocalist - baritone - Barnaba -
A person wearing an ornate, lace-up garment with a ruffled white collar and a sequined hat with a long feather stands against a dark background. The person has facial hair and holds a narrow stringed instrument over their shoulder. A signature is visible in the bottom right corner.
Björling, Jussi, 1911-1960 - Vocalist - tenor - - Has inscription
This sepia-toned headshot shows a person from the chest up wearing a dark suit, a white collared shirt, and a patterned tie. The person's dark hair is slicked back, and they are positioned against a light-colored background. Handwritten blue ink across the bottom of the portrait includes a personal message and a signature. A small identification number, "NY-857", is located in the bottom right corner.