59 - COHEN (Jules Émile David) (1830–1901). French composer, born in Marseille, a student at the Paris Conservatory.

COHEN (Jules Émile David) (1830–1901). French composer, born in Marseille, a student at the Paris Conservatory. Autograph letter signed “Jules Cohen,” addressed to a gentleman. No place, July 29, 1859. 1 page, in-8 format, in brown ink, on letterhead bearing his embossed monogram. A friendly note in which the composer requests two tickets for a performance that very evening. Jules Cohen writes to his correspondent to request tickets for a performance: “If you could possibly give me a ‘petite baignoire’ or two good seats for tonight, you would do me a great favor.” The composer concludes his request with a polite closing and a thank-you. The letter is signed “Jules Cohen” in elegant handwriting, accompanied by a signature. This document attests to the relationships the musician maintained within the Parisian theater world during the Second Empire. The term “baignoire” here refers to a box located on the parterre level in a theater. Jules Cohen studied at the Paris Conservatory under Zimmermann, Marmontel, Benoist, and Halévy. He composed several operas, notably *Maître Claude*, performed at the Opéra-Comique in 1861, and *Les Bleuets*, staged at the Théâtre-Lyrique in 1867. He also composed cantatas for special occasions, including *L'Annexion* (1860) and *Vive l'Empereur* (1860), which reflect his musical activity during the reign of Napoleon III. Condition: Generally good condition. Slightly yellowed paper, old creases, slight signs of handling. Embossed initials and signature are well preserved.