PUCCINI, Giacomo (1858-1924) - Madama Butterfly. Milan: G. Ricordi & C., 1904.   One of the few surviving copies of the first edition of the original two-act version of Madama Butterfly in good condition. La Prima, staged at La Scala on February 17, 1904, was one of the most sensational fiascos in the history of classical opera; the publication of this score for voice and piano was therefore interrupted and the copies were withdrawn from the market and destroyed (Hopkinson). A new edition was later published by Ricordi with 127 bars cut from the first act and with the second act split in two.   4to (275 x 200mm). Half-title, facsimile of Puccini's dedication to Queen Elena dated 5-2-1904, portrait of the master, 3 text leaves and 403 pp. of noted music (very light browning and foxing). Green editorial boards with blindstamped impressions on the plates and on the spine, title blindstamped on a red background on front cover (some light tears and minimal rubbing). Provenance: Edgardi Rodina (bookplate) - 01652 (pink stamp on title perhaps indicating the copy number) - blindstamp of Ricordi's publishing house. Some autographed photos of the period are also preserved in the book. (2)

Estimate € 1,200 - 1,800

Sold € 2,200