Lot Essay
Milan's Teatro alla Scala, sometimes referred to as "il Piermarini" after its architect Giuseppe Piermarini (1734-1808), is one of the most famous opera houses in the world. From the inaugural performance of Antonio Salieri's Europa riconosciuta to orchestras conducted by the legendary Arturo Toscanini, the venue which opened its doors to the public on August 3rd 1778 as the Nuovo Regio Ducale Teatro alla Scala, has welcomed an incredible roster of performers and performances to a stage renowned for its gilded opulence.
It is not known when these wall-carvings and the furniture in the following six lots left the foyer of the theatre, which they are reputed to have graced, but it was probably as part of a late 19th or early 20th century redecoration.