Cosima Collection
"Cosima Wagner: The Musical Muse and Legacy of Richard Wagner" Cosima, the wife of renowned German composer Richard Wagner
For sale as Licensed Images
Choose your image, Select your licence and Download the media
"Cosima Wagner: The Musical Muse and Legacy of Richard Wagner" Cosima, the wife of renowned German composer Richard Wagner, played a pivotal role in his life and musical career. Born Cosima Liszt in 1837, she was the daughter of famed composer Franz Liszt. Her marriage to Richard Wagner not only solidified their love but also became a partnership that would shape the world of music. In celebration of the birth of their son Siegfried, Richard conducted Siegfrieds Idyll at Triebschen. This beautiful moment captured in a chromolitho showcases the deep connection between father and son. Cosima's influence extended beyond her personal life as she actively supported her husband's work. She stood by him during his most challenging times, including financial difficulties and public controversies surrounding his compositions. After Richard's untimely death in 1883, Cosima continued to preserve his legacy. As widow to one of Germany's greatest composers, she dedicated herself to promoting his music and establishing Bayreuth Festival Theatre as its permanent home. The value Cosima placed on preserving her husband's work is evident through various photographs from late 19th century onwards. These images depict her unwavering dedication towards upholding Richard Wagner's musical heritage. As an individual with immense cultural significance herself, it is important to note that Cosima was more than just "Richard Wagner's wife. " She had a unique lineage as Franz Liszt’s daughter and possessed remarkable talent for nurturing artistic greatness within her family. Cosima lived until 1930 when she passed away at the age of 93. Her contributions to classical music continue to resonate even today. Through her efforts as both muse and guardian of Richard Wagner’s works, she ensured that future generations could experience the profound beauty he created. In remembering Cosima Wagner - daughter, wife, mother - we honor not only an extraordinary woman but also recognize how love for music can transcend time and leave an indelible mark on the world.