Lot 58
  • 58

Toscanini, Arturo

Estimate
1,500 - 2,000 GBP
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Description

  • Toscanini, Arturo
  • Three conductor's batons and a leather baton-holder
  • wood
overall lengths of batons between 46 x 51cm, one of wood, two of synthetic material, cork handles, one with maroon-coloured end-pieces, the baton-holder 54cm in length

Condition

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Stories abound concerning Toscanini and his batons. One such relates to the maestro’s habit of hurling musical scores at players during fits of temper. It was usually Toscanini's first act when enraged to take hold of his baton in both hands and try to break it. If the baton broke in two, calm generally returned to the conductor; if the baton proved unyielding, only then, the story goes, would he begin to hurl scores. The batons in this lot would have offered only moderate resistance to the maestro's fury.