Lot 921: DVORAK, ANTON

921. ANTON DVORAK (1841 - 1904) Czech composer whose influences include Brahms, Wagner and folk music from his native land. Dvorak composed nine symphonies, two piano duets called Slavonic Dances, operas chamber music, cantatas, and masses. From 1892-1895 Dvorak served as Director of the National Conservatory in New York where he composed his most famous work, his Symphony No.9 "From the New World". Nice content A.L.S. "Anton Dvorak" in English, 1p. 8vo., Vysoka, July 21, 1892, to Alfred Littleton of the Novello publishing house, in part: "...Some days ago I sent you the full score of the Mass (M.S.), as you asked me to write for you. I maked [sic] it for a large orchestra (except FL or Ob.) and I hope for it is done to your satisfaction. Please let me know if you got my M.S. and all will be right...". Dvorak composed his Mass in D-Major in 1887. Originally a choral work with organ accompaniment, he revised it at Novello's request for orchestra. This revised version, to which Dvorak refers here, was then published in 1893. Richly framed in dark green with garnet red accents with a forceful 4 1/2" x 6 1/2" portrait pf Dvorak, and set into wood and gilt frame. Boldly written and very good, not examined out of frame. $3,000 - 4,000