Details
VERDI, Giuseppe (1813-1901). A collection of one autograph letter signed and 10 visiting cards inscribed by Verdi to Giulio and Giuditta Ricordi, visiting cards with printed name of Giuseppe Verdi, the majority n.p., n.d. [some postmarks and annotations, Genoa, Milan, Bologna, 1848 - 1880s]; envelopes.
'I ARRIVED IN TIME TO SEE HER DIE!'
The cards carry on the whole brief, warm greetings, sometimes only the single word 'Saluti' or 'complimenti e ringraziamenti', sometimes bearing invitations -- 'We are in Milan -- if you can, come this evening to my place, if not I will come to yours'; two have invitations to 'mangiare la zuppa con noi', extended also to Giuditta and in one case to their son Tito; another warns of the visit of a mutual acquaintance. One card reports an improvement in the health of Verdi's wife Peppina. A dramatic, undated card says simply 'I'm waiting for you! I arrived in time to see her die! ...'.
Giulio Ricordi (1840-1912) was Verdi's publisher throughout his career. Their personal relationship was as close as their professional ties.
'I ARRIVED IN TIME TO SEE HER DIE!'
The cards carry on the whole brief, warm greetings, sometimes only the single word 'Saluti' or 'complimenti e ringraziamenti', sometimes bearing invitations -- 'We are in Milan -- if you can, come this evening to my place, if not I will come to yours'; two have invitations to 'mangiare la zuppa con noi', extended also to Giuditta and in one case to their son Tito; another warns of the visit of a mutual acquaintance. One card reports an improvement in the health of Verdi's wife Peppina. A dramatic, undated card says simply 'I'm waiting for you! I arrived in time to see her die! ...'.
Giulio Ricordi (1840-1912) was Verdi's publisher throughout his career. Their personal relationship was as close as their professional ties.
Special notice
VAT rate of 5% is payable on hammer price plus buyer's premium.
Sale room notice
Please note that there are 9 visiting cards and not 10 included in this lot.