Gilda Cruz-Romo

Gilda Cruz-Romo (Born February 12, 1940), Mexican operatic soprano, particularly associated with dramatic roles of the Italian repertory, notably 'Aida' and 'Tosca.' Original, vintage, pen and ink, "on-the-spot" illustration by George 'Georges' Krishizki. The hand drawn illustration has been signed by Crespin and additionally signed, dated and titled by Krishizki: "Georges / 1978 / Gilda Cruz-Romo as Lenora in Il Trovatore."

Her international career took off with her debut at the New York City Opera in 1969, as Margherita in 'Mefistofele,' opposite Norman Treigle. The following year, on December 18, 1970, she made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, as Cio-Cio-San in 'Madama Butterfly,' and remained at the Met until 1984. Her roles there included; Nedda, Violetta, Manon Lescaut, Suor Angelica, Tosca, Aida, Elisabeth de Valois, Desdemona, Amelia, both Verdi's Leonoras, from 'Il trovatore' and La 'forza del destino.' She also appeared at the opera houses of Chicago, Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, New Orleans, Boston, Philadelphia and Baltimore.

George 'Georges' Krishizki (March 22, 1924 – December 20, 2001), Russian-Polish-American illustrator who came to the U.S. in 1949. While he earned acclaim for his renderings of the city’s architectural landmarks, it was his on-the-spot drawings of musicians in performance that attracted an especially appreciative audience. In a 1973 article published in conjunction with two simultaneous exhibitions, Georges explained the genesis of his long-running engagement with the concert hall: “I’ve always enjoyed going to concerts, and one day I decided it would be fun to combine my interests in music and art and make sketches of musicians during performances.”  Indeed, the most remarkable feature of Georges’ oeuvre, apart from the astounding range of performers who gladly expressed their approval and appreciation by signing, is the skill with which the drawings are accomplished.

This original pen and ink illustration, measuring approximately 9 x 12, on heavy-weight sketch paper, is in fine condition with some light overall toning. Its verso is blank and clean.