Una Villa dell'Esarca Basilio Bozzetto per La Fiamma di O. Respighi

Product Information

• Setting: Poster
• Length: 1 page
• Publisher: Ricordi
• UPC/Item Number: STP00000300
• Other Reference: STP3
• ISMN: 9790215202368 / 979-0215202368

Overview

"Una Villa dell'Esarca Basilio" is a compelling visual representation of a set design (bozzetto) for Ottorino Respighi’s opera La Fiamma, first performed in 1934 at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma. This evocative poster captures the architectural and atmospheric qualities of a noble villa belonging to Esarca Basilio, a central figure in the drama, and situates the viewer within the Byzantine-Ravenna setting that is essential to the opera’s emotional and narrative landscape. La Fiamma is a melodrama in three acts with a libretto by Claudio Guastalla, loosely based on Hans Wiers-Jenssen’s play Anne Pedersdotter. Respighi relocated the story from 16th-century Norway to 8th-century Ravenna, lending the opera an exotic and historically resonant backdrop that he richly colors with his signature orchestral palette. The villa depicted in this bozzetto is more than a mere location; it is an emblem of power, intrigue, and personal torment—a space where secrets simmer beneath polished surfaces and where the boundaries between the rational and the supernatural begin to blur.

Visually, the poster reflects the stylistic grandeur of late antiquity, with architectural motifs, subdued lighting, and a hint of mysticism that aligns with the opera’s core themes of jealousy, forbidden passion, and accusations of witchcraft. The villa serves as a key environment in which much of the drama unfolds, including the psychological unraveling of the protagonist, Silvana—Esarca Basilio’s daughter-in-law—who becomes the target of suspicion and ultimately, tragedy. Respighi’s score in La Fiamma is noted for its rich textures, modal harmonies, and dramatic pacing, blending his love for early music with modern theatrical sensibilities. The opera stands as one of his most ambitious vocal works, revealing the depth of his talent not only as a master orchestrator but also as a dramatist. The bozzetto brings this world to life visually, offering a window into the emotional and symbolic architecture of the opera. In this sense, "Una Villa dell'Esarca Basilio" is more than a scenic sketch—it is a visual overture to Respighi’s dramatic world, capturing the grandeur, mystery, and emotional intensity that define La Fiamma.

Product Features

• Format: Poster
• Dimensions: Standard poster size
• Content: Visual representation of the setting from the opera "La Fiamma"
• Artistic Style: Illustrates the dramatic and thematic elements of Respighi's composition

Interesting Facts

• Composer Background: Ottorino Respighi (1879-1936) was a prominent Italian composer known for his orchestral works and operas. His music often incorporates elements of Italian folk traditions and showcases his fascination with historical themes.
• Opera Context: "La Fiamma" is based on a libretto by Claudio Guastalla and is inspired by the literary work "La strega" by Hans Wiers-Jenssen. The opera's narrative revolves around the character of Basilio and his wife Silvana, exploring the complexities of their relationship amidst supernatural occurrences.
• Cultural Significance: The opera is a significant part of the Italian operatic repertoire, reflecting Respighi's ability to blend lyrical melodies with dramatic storytelling, making it a compelling choice for both performers and audiences.

Publishers

Published by Ricordi, a distinguished music publishing house that specializes in classical and contemporary music, ensuring the preservation and promotion of significant works.

We value your feedback! Share your experience with this product to help others make informed decisions. Your review is important to us!

Hashtags

#OttorinoRespighi #LaFiamma #UnaVillaDellEsarca #OperaPoster #ItalianOpera #Ricordi