18 - BRÉVAL (Lucienne) (1869–1935). Famous French opera singer of Swiss origin, a dramatic soprano, and one of the great performers of the Paris Opera during the Belle Époque.

BRÉVAL (Lucienne) (1869–1935). Famous French opera singer of Swiss origin, a dramatic soprano, and one of the great performers of the Paris Opera during the Belle Époque. Autograph letter signed “Lucienne Bréval,” addressed to a friend. No place, July 20, no year. 1 page, folio size, in violet ink on white paper. A pleasant, friendly letter in which the famous singer discusses her plans to travel to Switzerland and her desire to reconnect with friends in Geneva. Lucienne Bréval explains that she had originally planned to go to Divonne, but that the weather is making her hesitate: “I was supposed to leave for Divonne this week, but with this beautiful weather, I’m hesitating a bit.” She ultimately plans to begin her trip in Geneva: “So I think I’ll start with Geneva, where I’ll surely be by the end of the month! To the ends of the earth together, perhaps, D., but… it’s not certain.” She concludes by expressing how much she would enjoy seeing her correspondent and Madame Baratin again: “I’ll be delighted to see you and Madame Baratin again; please tell me about your plans, and please accept my warm regards to both of you.” The letter is signed with her full name, “Lucienne Bréval,” in broad handwriting in violet ink. Born in Männedorf, Switzerland, in 1869, Lucienne Bréval—whose real name was Berthe Agnès Lisette Schilling—was one of the greatest dramatic sopranos of her time. A naturalized French citizen, she enjoyed a brilliant career at the Paris Opera, where she particularly distinguished herself in the Wagnerian repertoire and in French operatic premieres. Admired for the power of her voice, her stage presence, and her dramatic qualities, she was notably associated with the works of Wagner, Massenet, and Reyer. She contributed to the influence of the French operatic school at the turn of the 20th century. This private correspondence reveals a more intimate side of the artist, simply recounting her travels, her hesitations, and the friendships she maintained in Switzerland. A beautiful autograph letter from a leading figure in French opera, written in a personal and friendly tone. Generous, clearly legible handwriting in violet ink. Original horizontal fold; slight signs of handling. Good overall condition.