Mstislav Rostropovich, Galina Vishnevskaya

Mstislav Leopoldovich Rostropovich (March 27, 1927 – April 27, 2007), Soviet and Russian cellist and conductor. He is considered by many to have been the greatest cellist of the second half of the 20th century, original pen and ink, "on-the-spot" illustration by George 'Georges' Krishizki. Signed by Rostropovich and Vishnevskaya; additionally signed, dated and titled by Krishizki: "Pavlovna Vishnevskaya and Mstislav Rostropovich / Carnegie Hall / November 17, 1979."

Galina Pavlovna Vishnevskaya (October 25, 1926 – December 11, 2012), Russian soprano opera singer and recitalist who was named a People's Artist of the USSR in 1966. She was also the wife of Rostropovich.

George 'Georges' Krishizki (March 22, 1924 – December 20, 2001), Russian-Polish-American illustrator who came to the U.S. in 1949. While he earned acclaim for his renderings of the city’s architectural landmarks, it was his on-the-spot drawings of musicians in performance that attracted an especially appreciative audience. In a 1973 article published in conjunction with two simultaneous exhibitions, Georges explained the genesis of his long-running engagement with the concert hall: “I’ve always enjoyed going to concerts, and one day I decided it would be fun to combine my interests in music and art and make sketches of musicians during performances.”  Indeed, the most remarkable feature of Georges’ oeuvre, apart from the astounding range of performers who gladly expressed their approval and appreciation by signing, is the skill with which the drawings are accomplished.

This original pen and ink illustration, measuring approximately 9 x 12, on heavy-weight sketch paper torn from a pad, is in fine condition with some light overall toning. Its Verso is blank.