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All auctions / Photographs / GIGLI (Beniamino) (1890–1957). Famous Italian tenor, one of - Lot 176

8d 15hFRArt Research Paris

GIGLI (Beniamino) (1890–1957). Famous Italian tenor, one of - Lot 176

GIGLI (Beniamino) (1890–1957). Famous Italian tenor, one of - Lot 176

GIGLI (Beniamino) (1890–1957). Famous Italian tenor, one of the greatest opera voices of the first half of the 20th century. A beautiful original black-and-white photograph, signed and dated “Beniamino Gigli 1937.” 1937. Photograph measuring 10.5 × 15 cm, depicting the famous Italian tenor in a three-quarter-length portrait, wearing an elegant dark suit and a tie. A superb photographic portrait of Beniamino Gigli, enhanced by his large autograph signature in blue ink, accompanied by the date 1937. The photograph shows the singer in an elegant and contemplative pose, his gaze turned to the left. The composition, executed with particular care, highlights the tenor’s features through delicately nuanced lighting and a light-colored background. The signature, generously inscribed at the bottom of the photograph, serves as a beautiful decorative element and reflects the artist’s personality. On the reverse side is the photographer’s printed credit, “Fot. G. Grazioli - Firenze,” as well as the singer’s handwritten name. Born in Recanati in 1890, Beniamino Gigli was one of the most admired tenors of his time. After his debut in 1914, he enjoyed an exceptional international career, performing notably at La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and on Europe’s leading opera stages. Often regarded as one of the great successors to Enrico Caruso, he particularly distinguished himself in the operas of Puccini, Verdi, Donizetti, and Mascagni. His voice, remarkable for its smoothness, warm timbre, and supple phrasing, earned him immense popularity. The year 1937 marked a period of full artistic maturity for the singer, who was then recognized as one of the leading international stars of opera. A truly captivating memento of the golden age of Italian opera, combining a high-quality photographic portrait with an impressive, dated autograph. In generally good condition. A few slight signs of handling and subtle signs of age. The signature is particularly clear, in deep blue ink.

Estimate:£100.46

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Estimate:

£100.46

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