Jean-Claude Casadesus

Jean-Claude Casadesus (born Jean-Claude Probst), French conductor. Original, vintage, pen and ink, "on-the-spot" illustration by George 'Georges' Krishizki. The hand drawn illustration has been signed by Casadesus and additionally signed, dated and titled by Krishizki: "Georges / 1984 / Jean-Claude Casadesus conducting Orchestre National de Lille in "L'Arlesienne" Suite by Georges Bizet / Carnegie Hall / November 9, 1984."

In 1969 he was hired as assistant conductor at the Paris Opéra and the Opéra-Comique. In 1971 he co-founded the Orchestre National des Pays de la Loire with Pierre Devaux, and acted as Devaux's deputy there until 1976. In 1976 he became principal conductor of the Orchestra National de Lille, performing concerts locally and internationally. He directed the French Youth Orchestra in 2007.

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, is in fine condition with some light overall toning. Its verso is blank and clean.