SUPERB PHOTOGRAPH OF THE GREAT OPERA COMPOSER, INSCRIBED AND SIGNED BY PUCCINI - A large 11 inch high by 7 inch wide black & white Imperial cabinet photograph which depicts the striking looking Italian composer looking much like an operatic figure himself. Photographed from the knees up,Puccini's hands are in the pockets of a handsome long black overcoat with raised collar. A dark felt Italian hat of the period completes the picture. Inscribed in ink across the top "Al circulo Universitario Bolognese / 'La Boheme'." Boldly signed " ricordo d' / Giacomo Puccini", from his home "Tore Del Lago 6.3.99". There is some minor spotting to the light colored background from the developing process. The ink inscription is uneven, but nonetheless quite legible and the signature is quite bold. A stunning inscribed portrait. Signed Puccini photographs of this size are RARE. Giacomo Puccini composed several of the best known Italian operas. His works include "Manon Lescaut", "La Boheme", "Madam Butterfly", and "Turandot", among many others. Provenance: From the collection of the late autograph dealer Bob Tollett.