This cabinet card features Swedish opera star, Christine Nilsson (1943-1921). She was known for her pure voice, graceful appearance and her stage presence. She was a leading international singer during her twenty year career. She retired in 1888. Some believe that she and diva, Adelina Pattie, were rivals. Nilsson was the youngest of seven children belonging to a very poor family. She showed musical talent when she was young but her family lacked the funds to get her proper training. She would perform at local fairs to make extra money. At age 14, she was “discovered” at a market fair by a wealthy judge. He became her sponsor and bankrolled her professional vocal training as well as music theory, foreign language, and musical instrument instruction. At age 17, she made her professional debut in concerts in Stockholm. She then received further training in Paris and began performing there. Her London debut occurred in 1867 and she had her American debut in 1871. An American tour brought her much financial success and acclaim. In 1883. she performed in “Faust” at the opening of the Metropolitan Opera House (New York City). That same year, she sang at the White House in front of President Chester A Arthur. Her final US appearance was in 1884. She returned to Europe and performed and toured there. Nilsson never made a recording. When technology would have allowed her to make a record, she thought her voice had started it’s decline so she had no interest in making a recording. SOLD
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