Soprano Aria Appraisal

Eileen Farrell Puccini Arias (Columbia Masterworks LP)

The item is a vintage long-playing (LP) vinyl record album, specifically 'EILEEN FARRELL PUCCINI ARIAS,' released under the Columbia Masterworks label. The album cover, visible in the image, is made of paperboard or cardstock, consistent with standard LP packaging. Its dimensions suggest a typical 12-inch LP cover, approximately 12.375 inches by 12.375 inches. The front cover features a portrait of opera singer Eileen Farrell, depicted against a dark, dramatic background. She is shown with a light-colored, possibly chartreuse or pale yellow, garment that contrasts with the dark surroundings. The album title 'EILEEN FARRELL PUCCINI ARIAS' is prominently displayed vertically along the left side of the cover in white lettering. The Columbia Masterworks logo, identifying the record label, is situated in the upper left corner. A list of specific arias by Puccini, including La Rondine, Manon Lescaut, La Bohème, Gianni Schicchi, Madame Butterfly, Tosca, and Turandot, is printed in red text vertically along the right side. Below this, the names 'The Columbia Symphony Orchestra - Max Rudolf, Conductor' are also listed, indicating the accompanying musicians. The overall condition of the cover appears to be 'gently used,' as noted in the context. This implies minor wear such as light surface scratches, scuffs, or subtle corner dings, which are visible as faint white marks and smudges on the dark surface, particularly near the top edge. There are no obvious tears or significant creases visible from this angle, suggesting a degree of care in its previous handling. The album likely dates from the mid-to-late 20th century, given the LP format and the 'Columbia Masterworks' branding, which was prominent during that period for classical music releases. The craftsmanship is typical of mass-produced records from the era, focusing on functional protection for the vinyl within.