Luisa Tetrazzini: Iconic 1919 Opera Star Moment

This photograph captures the celebrated Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, taken on November 25, 1919, by the Bain News Service. Known for her brilliant vocal technique and exquisite performances, Tetrazzini gained fame in the early 20th century, particularly for her roles in operas like Lucia di Lammermoor and La Traviata. Her talent helped elevate the popularity of opera in America, especially among audiences who may not have been regular patrons of the art form.

The image is a glass negative, a common medium of the time that allowed photographers to create sharp and detailed images. At 5 by 7 inches or smaller, these negatives were part of a larger trend in early photographic processes that documented the lives and careers of prominent figures. Tetrazzinis legacy remains influential in the world of opera, and this photograph serves as a historical snapshot of a remarkable artist at a pivotal moment in her career.