Erich Leinsdorf

Erich Leinsdorf; born Erich Landauer (February 4, 1912 – September 11, 1993), Austrian-born American conductor, original pen and ink "on-the-spot" illustration by George 'Georges' Krishizki. Signed, titled and dated by Krishizki: "Erich Leinsdorf conducting The Cleveland Orchestra in Symphony No 4 in G major with Soprano Solo by G. Mahler / Carnegie Hall / May 2, 1984 / Georges / 1984."

Leinsdorf performed and recorded with leading orchestras and opera companies throughout the United States and Europe, earning a reputation for exacting standards as well as an acerbic personality. He also published books and essays on musical matters.

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 9, on heavy-weight sketch paper, is in fine condition with some light overall toning. Its verso is blank and clean.