Leoncavallo, Ruggero, (1857-1919)

Autograph manuscript of the song "Ninna-Nanna", composed to celebrate the birth of Prince Umberto of Savoy [later Umberto II], signed twice ("R. Leoncavallo"), in coloured inks

This song celebrates the birth of the Hereditary Prince Umberto of Savoy (1904-1983), the only son of the King of Italy, Vittorio Emmanuele III.   He briefly became the last King of Italy, Umberto II, reigning for thirty-four days in 1946. The song is dedicated to his mother Elena of Savoy, who was also the dedicatee of Puccini's Madama Butterfly.

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
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with an elaborate title page in green, red and brown inks ("A Sua Maestà a Regina Elena... Ninna=Nanna, Per la nascita di S.A.R. Il Principe Ereditario [deleted: "La Principessa"], Parole e musica di R. Leoncavallo"), poem by the composer on verso, the music for voice and piano notated on two systems of five staves per page, with alternative words provided for the baby prince or princess (in red),

7 pages in all, large 4to (c.33 x 27.5cm), 12-stave paper, sewn with red thread, [1904], some dustmarking and spotting, offsetting to final blank