PAGANINI, NICCOLO. (1782-1840). Italian musician and composer; regarded as the violin’s greatest virtuoso. DS. (“Paganini”). 1p. Oblong 16mo. N.p. (London), N.d. (ca. 1831). A printed ticket for “Signor Paganini's Concert,” (at the King’s Theatre) headed by the royal seal and signed by Paganini in the lower right margin.

A child prodigy, Paganini began his career playing throughout the surroundings of his native Genoa, followed by a successful premiere in Milan in 1813, after which his name became synonymous with virtuoso. Many of Paganini’s compositions were deemed unplayable, prompting some to claim that his talent was the result of supernatural, if not diabolical, influences.

On May 14, 1831, Paganini arrived in London where he gave the first of a series of 18 concerts. So well received was his debut, that even The Times, which had protested the high ticket prices, admitted, “‘He is not only the finest player that has ever existed on that instrument, but he forms a class by himself,’” (The New Grove Dictionary). He toured through England during 1832 and 1833 with additional appearances in England thereafter.

Elegantly matted and framed with expected wear at the edges and lightly stained; the card is slightly bent. In very good condition.