Michael William Balfe
(1808-1870), ComposerEarly Victorian Portraits Catalogue Entry
Sitter associated with 8 portraits
Dublin-born musician and composer, Balfe came to London in 1823, where he became a violinist at the oratorios at Drury Lane. Between 1825-6, he studied with Rossini, in Italy, where he became a successful opera singer. On returning to London in 1833, he found singing engagements at the Philharmonic Concerts, and was later appointed conductor of the London Italian Opera in 1845. Balfe's numerous operas and operettas included popular compositions The Bohemian Girl (1843), Rose of Castille (1857) and Satanella (1858).
Unknown man, formerly known as Michael William Balfe
attributed to Richard Rothwell
oil on canvas, circa 1840
NPG 1450
by Herbert Watkins
albumen print, late 1850s
NPG P301(164)
by Herbert Watkins
albumen carte-de-visite, early 1860s
NPG Ax18253
by Herbert Watkins
albumen carte-de-visite, early 1860s
NPG x5158
by Camille Silvy
albumen print, 7 April 1861
NPG Ax52300
by Window & Grove
albumen carte-de-visite, 1872-1879 (late 1860s)
NPG x134139
by James Russell & Sons, after Unknown artist, after Window & Grove
albumen cabinet card, late 1880s
NPG x176
by Mayer Brothers
albumen carte-de-visite, 27 March 1861
NPG Ax38783
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