Nijinsky, Vaslav

Ballet slipper signed (W. Nijinsky") and dated 1914, the cream calf body over a stiff leather sole (8 1/2 in.; 220 mm in length; some light stains at the heel, ornament removed from the toe. Housed in a custom made linen folding case with recessed compartment.

Ballet slipper signed (W. Nijinsky") and dated 1914, the cream calf body over a leather sole (8 1/2 in.; 220 mm in length; some light stains at the heel, ornament removed from the toe. Housed in a custom made linen folding case with recessed compartment.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A token of Nijinsky's flamboyant and meteoric and sometimes controversial career, a diminutive, worn ballet slipper signed by Nijinsky and dated 1914.  Sergei Diaghilev's relationship with the dancer came to an abrupt end when he married Romola de Pulszky during a South American tour with the Ballets Russes in 1913. In June 1914, Romola gave birth to their daughter, Kyra, in Vienna. The start of World War I made Nijinsky an enemy Russian citizen; he was placed under house arrest until 1916.

Despite their break, Diaghilev was desperate for dancers and started negotiations in October 1914 for Nijinsky to work once more for the Ballets Russes. His release was obtained in 1916 after complex negotiations and a prisoner exchange with the United States where it was agreed Nijinsky would dance and choreograph for the company's tour.  Nijinsky's performances met with steady acclaim, but his mismanagement  and flights of rage contributed to considerable financial and emotional strife within the company. At about this time signs of schizophrenia were becoming apparent to members of the company. Following the tour, he was diagnosed with the disease and taken to Switzerland for treatment. He spent the rest of his life in and out of psychiatric hospitals and asylums. He died in a London clinic 8 April 1950.