Italian composer (1813-1901) who was one of the most influential figures in the history of opera. Scarce matte-finish 4 x 5.75 half-length portrait of Verdi in a jacket and tie, stamped in the lower portion, "Ricordi & C. Deposto," and affixed to its original A. Ferrario photographer's mount, signed on the mount in black ink, "Milano, 9 Feb: 1893, G. Verdi." In very good to fine condition, with silvering to the image, trimmed edges, and a light stain over most of the signature.
Widely considered one of the greatest comic operas of all time, Verdi's Falstaff was adapted by the composer's close friend and regular collaborator Arrigo Boito. It debuted on February 9, 1893 at the world-renowned La Scala theater in Milan, host to many of his landmark premiers. Signed in Milan on the day of the opening, this piece holds great significance—an extraordinarily rare photo!