A 1p autograph letter in Italian twice signed by Italian opera composer Giacomo Puccini (1858-1924), the first time on line three within the text of the letter, as "Giacomo"; and the second time as "G Puccini" at the letter's conclusion. May 26, 1897. N.p. Approximately 30 words inscribed in pencil on white paper with a bluish tint. Expected wear including flattened transmittal folds and a few additional wrinkles. A partial metal rust stain is found in the lower right corner, with a faint ghost impression at upper right. Else near fine. 4.25" x 9.75."

The letter is untranslated, though a summary of it has been provided; Puccini felt regret that he had to leave his friend, but he found the "the thirst for greenery" ["la sete di verde"] too strong to resist. Who knows what discoveries may be uncovered when fully translated!

A few months later, in the summer of 1897, Giacomo Puccini would meet Enrico Caruso (1873-1921), then a young and little-known Neapolitan tenor, during an audition for "La Bohème" in Livorno, Italy. Puccini was awestruck at Caruso's talent, reportedly saying, "Who sent you to me? God himself?"

Puccini's letter was addressed to "Caro Carluccio," that is, Carlo Clausetti (1869-1943), who co-managed the Naples branch of Casa Ricordi, a family-run firm of musical publishers established in 1808. The company was hugely successful, distributing copies of popular works by Italian and international composers from regional branches in Florence, Rome, Naples, Palermo, Paris, and London. Casa Ricordi managed reproduction rights for major Italian composers like Puccini, Verdi, Bellini, and Rossini. Clausetti had worked for Casa Ricordi since 1892. He was also a composer, librettist, and music critic.

Giacomo Puccini has been heralded as one of the best Italian composers of all time. He eventually eschewed more traditional romantic traditions in favor of more realistic portrayals, or verismo. Puccini enjoyed early success with "La Bohème" (1896), "Tosca" (1900), and "Madama Butterfly" (1904).

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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