Tamagno, Francesco. (1850–1905)
Enormous Signed Photograph to his Daughter
Enormous presentation three-quarter Russian bust portrait, in medallion, of the legendary dramatic tenor, personally signed and inscribed to his daughter Margherita, "for my beloved daughter Margherita, Francesco Tamagno, 1 June, 1891." In fine condition with highlighting and hand-coloring in paint by the photographer. Set under Tru Vue conservation glass in gilt wood frame. 20.75"H x 16"W; framed 30.25"H x 25.5"W.The photograph was likely taken around the time of Tamagno's Moscow debut as Otello (with Kaschmann as Iago) on the 4th of April, 1891.
One of the most important tenors in the generation before Caruso, Francesco Tamagno was a devoted single father to his illegitimate daughter Margherita, for whom he cared from her birth, writing incredibly moving letters to her throughout his career, and was one of the first international male public figures to admit that he was the single parent and caregiver of a daughter from her birth. Best-known as the creator of Verdi's Otello in 1887 (although Verdi reportedly found his legato, intonation, and acting somewhat lacking!). The role brought him great acclaim and opened the doors of the world's opera houses to him. He pursued a busy and highly acclaimed career that lasted for more than three decades, before slowing down in the early years of the 1900's. After Verdi's death on January 27, 1901, Tamagno appeared in a memorial concert on February 1 at La Scala with Coletti, Caruso, and Borgatti. Although Tamagno had a bullish physique and powerful voice, his chronic heart ailment caused his early death at the age of 55, in 1905. (23215)
Autograph Letter Opera