Vintage sheet music RIP Planquette Théâtre Gaîté retro music 19th century
AFW - Antique France Worldwide
Description
Old illustrated musical score booklet, titled "RIP," from the Théâtre de la Gaîté. The cover features a black engraving depicting a costumed, armed, and moustached character, full-length, with stylized bamboo decor framing the title. The illustration, signed H. Roby, shows a graphic style typical of the late 19th century, with a decorative font and careful attention to the details of the attire and accessories.
The full title mentions "Rip by Meilhac, Cille, and Fannie, music by R. Planquette." The layout highlights the composer R. Planquette's name in bold. At the bottom of the page, the visible song list includes: "Vive la paresse, voilà ma maîtresse" (Long live laziness, here's my mistress), "Là bas, sur la blanche rivière" (Down there, on the white river), "Et maintenant ô douces têtes blondes" (And now, oh sweet blonde heads), "Que peux-tu contenir, toi que je n'ose ouvrir" (What can you hold, you that I dare not open).
The paper has a cream hue, typical of old prints, with a slightly textured surface. The top edge is slightly wavy, indicating natural aging of the paper. The corners are rounded and show some moderate signs of wear, mainly visible on the lower right where a small stain is noticeable. The cover appears flexible, with no apparent cardboard rigidity.
The graphic style and typography clearly evoke the late 19th century, with a distinct retro aesthetic, reinforced by the mention of the Théâtre de la Gaîté, an iconic Parisian venue of the time. No other decorative details appear on the visible face, apart from the frame and the designer's signature in the bottom left.
This musical score booklet is intended for any lover of old music, operetta, or historical documents related to French musical theater. The jacket highlights the work of Robert Planquette, a renowned composer known for his successful operettas.
Condition
Used item sold as is. Visible wear on edges, dulled corners, slight stain on the lower right corner, handling marks and period patina. The whole remains legible and well-preserved for its age.
Did you know? The operetta "Rip" was created in 1884 at the Théâtre de la Gaîté in Paris, with music by Robert Planquette, a composer also known for "Les Cloches de Corneville." This type of booklet was commonly sold at the end of performances to allow the public to replay the popular tunes of the show at home.
AFW Reassurance
Careful packaging and fast shipping provided by a professional seller specializing in old documents and musical scores.
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