Iconic Portrait of a 20th Century Opera Soprano

This historical photograph features Lucrezia Bori, a prominent soprano of the early 20th century known for her dazzling vocal talent and significant contributions to the world of opera. Born in 1887 in Spain, Bori became a celebrated figure at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, where she made her debut in 1910. Throughout her career, she performed in numerous operas, including works by composers like Puccini and Verdi, and was admired not only for her voice but also for her dramatic stage presence.

The image was captured by a photographer from the Bain News Service, a notable entity that documented significant cultural and social figures of the time. These glass negatives hold particular historical value as they showcase individuals who played key roles in shaping the arts and entertainment landscape during the early 20th century. Bori’s contributions echoed through the music world as she popularized many compositions and helped to elevate the status of operatic performances in America. This photograph stands as a testament to her legacy, capturing a moment in time that reflects the vibrancy of the operatic art form during that era.