Igor Stravinsky
Legendary Composer and Conductor · Classical Music & Composition
Independent / Diaghilev's Ballets Russes / Hollywood Film Studios
Era
Mid-century - March 1955
Item Type
Typewritten letter / Typed correspondence
Condition
Very good condition for a mid-1950s document, showing natural paper yellowing and a horizontal fold line.
Rarity
Scarce, especially on personal correspondence with unique content
Overall Assessment
An excellent, highly collectible piece of mid-century musical history featuring strong eye appeal and personalized content.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic based on handwriting characteristics and period consistency
Signature Style
Stylized monogram with prominent sweeping loop enclosing the surname
Signature Characteristics
Characterized by high velocity, confident pen strokes, a massive sweeping upward loop that frames the signature, and precise angular letter forms beneath.
Ink & Medium
Black fountain pen or marker on typewritten paper
Item Description
Personal typewritten letter dated March 28th, 1955, addressed to Cary, Frances, Caren, and Tor, featuring a distinctive large loop and Stravinsky's signature.
Estimated Value
$1,500 - $3,500 depending on auction venue and content context
Comparison to Known Examples
Strong alignment with authentic examples of Stravinsky signatures from the 1950s, showing his consistent use of the sweeping envelope loop.
Authentication Tips
Examine the fluid momentum of the large looping flourish, the characteristic crossbar of the T, and the tight angular formation within the circular loop.
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA or JSA (James Spence Authentication)
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the typing format, aging, and signature fluidity match period exemplars.
Provenance Notes
Direct association with named recipients (Cary, Frances, Caren, and Tor) provides a solid foundation for family provenance research.
Historical Context
Signed in 1955 during Stravinsky's prolific American period, reflecting his personal correspondence style while residing in Los Angeles.
Market Trends
Stable and strong demand for major 20th-century classical composers, particularly items with personal content.
Investment Potential
Strong long-term hold for institutional collections and high-end classical music archives.
Similar Autographs
Other musical geniuses such as Arnold Schoenberg, Sergei Rachmaninoff, and George Gershwin.
Display & Preservation
Frame with UV-protective glass and acid-free mats to prevent further paper degradation and fading of the ink.
Interesting Facts
Stravinsky's signature evolved into a distinct artistic logo-like monogram later in life, heavily incorporating geometric loops.