103 - DELMAS (Jean-François, known as Francisque) (1861–1933). Famous French opera singer, bass-baritone. Superb photographic portrait by Paul Nadar, with a signed autograph dedication.

DELMAS (Jean-François, known as Francisque) (1861–1933). Famous French opera singer, bass-baritone. Superb photographic portrait by Paul Nadar, with a signed autograph dedication. Paris, Paul Nadar Studio, January 1905. Original black-and-white photograph, a period print mounted on heavy cardstock from the Nadar Studio, 16.4 × 11 cm (photograph: 14.5 × 10.6 cm). A very beautiful portrait of the singer shown in profile, in stage costume, wearing an imposing hat and sporting a long white beard. The composition, which is particularly expressive, highlights the artist’s dramatic power and stage presence. Autograph inscription signed in blue ink in the lower left corner of the portrait: “In memory of ‘Wanderer’ J. F. Delmas, January 1905. ” The character of the Wanderer is one of Wotan’s incarnations in *Siegfried*, the third installment of Richard Wagner’s *Ring Cycle*. This role, requiring a deep voice of great authority and exceptional stage presence, was among the most prestigious roles in the Wagnerian repertoire. Jean-François Delmas, known as Francisque Delmas (Lyon, 1861–1933), was one of the great French basses of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. After studying at the Paris Conservatory, he enjoyed a brilliant career at the Paris Opera, where he particularly distinguished himself in the dramatic and Wagnerian repertoire. In particular, he took part in the French premieres of several major works and was appreciated for the nobility of his interpretation, the depth of his voice, and his remarkable acting talent. The portrait was taken by the studio of Paul Nadar (1856–1939), son of the famous Félix Nadar, who carried on the family’s photographic legacy and immortalized numerous artistic, literary, and theatrical figures of the Belle Époque. On the reverse, there is an elegant red-printed mark of the Nadar studio, featuring its awards from the World’s Fairs and the addresses of its Parisian studios: 51 Rue d’Anjou and 53 Rue des Mathurins. A very fine piece combining an original photographic portrait from the Nadar studio, a signed autograph dedication, and a characteristic depiction from the Wagnerian repertoire. Some scuffing and minor wear on the corners of the card, particularly on the lower right corner. Slight signs of age, with no major damage to the portrait or the dedication.