Enrico Caruso: Iconic Tenor Portrait, 1917

This photograph captures the renowned Italian tenor Enrico Caruso on November 4, 1917. Caruso, one of the most celebrated operatic voices of the early 20th century, was known for his powerful and emotive singing style that captivated audiences around the world. By this time, Caruso had already achieved immense fame, thanks to his groundbreaking recordings and performances at prestigious venues like the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.

The image was produced by the Bain News Service, a notable photographic agency that chronicled significant events and personalities in American life. Glass negatives, like the one used for this photograph, were a common medium for capturing high-quality images during this era. The clarity and detail of these negatives allowed for stunning reproductions that contributed to the public’s fascination with figures like Caruso, who helped to elevate the popularity of opera in America. This photo provides a glimpse into a pivotal moment in cultural history, highlighting Caruso’s role in shaping the musical world of his time.