7 - BELVAL (Jules) (1819–1876). French opera singer, renowned bass at the Paris Opera.

BELVAL (Jules) (1819–1876). French opera singer, renowned bass at the Paris Opera. Autograph letter signed “J. Belval,” addressed to Mr. Desarbres. No place, July 5, 1861. 1 page, in-12 format, in black ink, on embossed paper bearing an elegant debossed monogram with the initials “B G.” A charming letter in which the famous singer humorously discusses his musical obligations and requests an excellent box at the theater, not without a playful allusion to Emperor Napoleon III. Held up at the Institute to perform several cantatas, Jules Belval regrets that he cannot visit his correspondent: “I will not have the pleasure today of placing even a single kiss on your virginal forehead. Until five o’clock this evening, I’ll be stuck at the Institute performing a multitude of cantatas.” He goes on to ask for a special favor: “Please be so kind as to reserve for me a box in the third tier, the best one, of course. ” And he adds mischievously: “I would gladly ask you to include an orchestra seat, but… the Emperor might take offense. I won’t insist.” The letter concludes with a friendly closing and a beautiful, underlined autograph signature. Born in La Fère, in the department of Aisne, in 1819, Jules Belval was one of the most acclaimed French basses on the opera stages of the Second Empire. His career took him, notably, to the Paris Opera, where he participated in the particularly brilliant musical life of Napoleon III’s reign. This letter, dated 1861, offers a vivid and witty account of the relationships between artists and their correspondents in 19th-century musical Paris. The reference to the Emperor, combined with the mention of a performance at the Institut, lends the document additional historical significance. An interesting autograph letter, written in a casual and humorous tone, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Parisian opera life during the Second Empire. Beautiful handwriting in black ink, with a clearly legible signature. The paper shows a few old creases and slight signs of handling. Two embossed monogram impressions are visible in the upper portion.