Caruso, Enrico. (1873-1921) Opera tenor who began life as an auto mechanic, and eventually enjoyed great success as a tenor, singing first in Italy and later the United States. After appearing in a production of Rigoletto with New York's Metropolitan Opera, Caruso was established as its leading tenor. He had a large repertoire, comprising more than forty operas.
Original Caricature Signed. One page, Folio, 8½ x 14", on manilla stock, n.p., 1907. A very large drawing in black crayon, being a full-figure caricature of a dapper middle-age man identified at upper right in Caruso's hand as "A. Nathan." Caruso has created the image of a fussy, slightly jaded man-about-town: formal attire, stiff collar, hands thrust in pockets, slicked-back hair, clipped mustache, and a long cigarette holder which juts out from his tightly clenched jaw. Caruso has signed his name and written the year "1907" at lower left. The famous tenor was well-known for his love of caricature, and often drew upon his long list of acquaintances, and his celebrity status, to produce sketches of the famous people of his own day. Fine.
Estimated Value $750-1,000.
