192 - GOUNOD (Charles) (1818–1893) — DELABORDE (Henri) (1811–1899)

GOUNOD (Charles) (1818–1893) — DELABORDE (Henri) (1811–1899) A Biography of Charles Gounod. Paris, Firmin-Didot et Cie, 1894. Quarto, 23 pages, paperback, with a green printed cover adorned with the emblem of the Institut de France. Text by Count Henri Delaborde, Permanent Secretary of the Academy of Fine Arts, read at the annual public session on November 3, 1894. A moving tribute to Charles Gounod, one year after his death, by the Academy of Fine Arts. Henri Delaborde traces the life and career of the composer, winner of the Grand Prix de Rome in 1839, and celebrates his major role in the history of French music. He opens his eulogy with these words: “There are names in the history of art whose very mention is enough to justify their glory: the name Gounod is one of them.” This profile serves as an interesting testament to the official recognition granted to the composer shortly after his death. Enclosed with this brochure are two early portraits of Charles Gounod: - A large photographic portrait reproduced by phototype by J. Royer in Nancy, published as an illustration in the *Journal Sainte-Cécile*, a publication specifically intended for young people, No. 1, first year. It depicts the composer in his later years, with his arms crossed. - A portrait taken from *La Petite Revue*, 10 centimes, second year, No. 82, dated December 14, 1889, featuring on the front page a large engraved portrait of Charles Gounod, published on the occasion of the revival of *Mireille*. A set of three items dedicated to Charles Gounod, comprising a posthumous academic tribute and two contemporary portraits of the composer. The brochure’s cover is faded, with wear and small tears along the edges. There are a few creases, foxing spots, and marginal tears on the portraits, particularly on the issue of *La Petite Revue*. The copy is in fair condition.