Jerome Hines (1921–2003) was one of the best known American operatic bass-baritones, renowned for his rich, powerful, unforced voice and his psychologically penetrating acting performances. Debuting at the San Francisco Opera at age 20, he next performed with several orchestras, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and with the New Orleans Opera, before auditioning for the Metropolitan Opera where he performed for 41 years, from 1946 to 1987.
A towering presence at 6' 6", his stage presence and stentorian voice made him ideal for such roles as Mephistopheles in Faust, Sarastro in The Magic Flute, Ramfis in Aida, the Grand Inquisitor in Don Carlos, King Mark in Tristan und Isolde, and the title role of Boris Godunov, which was the first of Hines’ 869 Met performances, spanning over 45 characters in 39 operas. Hines also performed Boris Godunov at the Bolshoi Theatre for Soviet Premier Nikita Kruschev.
This pair of striking portraits of Jerome Hines in full operatic costuming come framed and ready for display in matching, substantial golden frames, each with double matting in white and gold.
The first of the pair shows Hines in the title role of Boris Godunov. The photograph has been signed in deep blue felt-tip “Jerome Hines” and inscribed “John 17:3”.
The second photograph of the pair is of Hines in his role of Mephistopheles in Faust, and is also signed in blue marker “Jerome Hines”, and inscribed “John 3:16”. Jerome Hines was deeply religious and almost invariably signed his name with an added Bible citation.
Mr. Hines’ signatures and inscriptions have been examined and authenticated by James Spence Authentication (JSA), and the pair is accompanied by a full Letter of Authenticity from JSA.
In addition to all the accolades, honors and awards received by Jerome Hines during his lengthy career, Hines was invited to perform at the White House on 19 September 1961, and performed for President John F. Kennedy, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, and the guests at the special State dinner honoring the Peruvian President and First Lady.
This framed pair of photos is being auctioned simultaneously with a framed collection of White House ephemera commemorating Jerome Hines’ attendance and performance at the State dinner at the White House.
Size: Framed size of each signed photograph measures 17-3/4" in height x 14-3/4" width x 1" depth