CASALS, PABLO. (1876-1973). Spanish cellist, conductor and composer. SP. (“Pablo Casals”). 1p. Cabinet. Paris, 1901. Inscribed in French across the top of the image to his “dear friend Vietinghoff,” perhaps the pianist Baron Anatole Vietinghoff Scheel. A youthful sepia bust portrait by Barcelona photographer A. Esplugas with Casals’ large signature across the image.

By 1901, Casals reputation in Europe had been firmly established, and it wasn’t before long, 1904, to be precise, when he was invited to perform at the White House as a guest of President Theodore Roosevelt and later that year made his Carnegie Hall debut. During Spanish General Franco’s fascist regime, the threat of execution forced him to leave his beloved homeland. “Never a flamboyant performer, he sought tirelessly in practice and rehearsal for the truth and beauty he felt to be an artist’s responsibility, and used his formidable powers with a simplicity and concentration that allowed no compromise. His artistry led to a new appreciation of the cello and its repertory,” (The New Grove Dictionary). After his exile, Casals performed in support of the United Nations and as part of a peace campaign that he launched himself.

Some light wear and paper loss to the mount, which is also bumped at the corners. In very good condition, and uncommon from this early time.