Books and Manuscripts

Torino, (Italy), March 5, 1864. One sheet, approximately 8 x 5 in. (203 x 127 mm) (sight). Autograph letter in Italian on Italian Parliament stationery (embossed "Camera Dei Deputati" stamp at top left corner), signed by Verdi ("G. Verdi"), likely to his business manager, Dr. Ercolano Balestra: "Thank you for paying Galanti's salary. Also, I would appreciate it if you continue to do so in the future. To that effect, I am enclosing the 50 Francs needed to pay the salary up to July 1st. Best regards to Mrs. Marietta." (Translation provided by a previous cataloguer). Creasing from contemporary folds; scattered foxing. In mat with a portrait of Verdi, and in frame, 12 x 13 3/8 in. (305 x 340 mm).

Dr. Ercolano Balestra was a notary in Busseto, and originally a friend of Verdi's father, Carlo. Following Verdi's legal separation from his parents in 1851--executed with Balestra's assistance--Balestra managed Verdi's business affairs.