Opera token for the architect of the Royal Italian Opera House

A most unusual 19th century opera token dyed teal blue.  The token is inscribed with the name of the theatre :  Royal Italian Opera, later the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden and also inscribed 1867, Tuesday, Stall 328. The holder of the token E.M. Barry Esq. was Edward Middleton Barry, an architect. Barry was the designer of the theatre of the Royal Italian Opera. The reconstruction of the theatre in 1857, in the short space of eight months after it had been destroyed by fire and the erection in the following year of the Floral Hall adjoining, afford examples of Barry’s energy, constructive skill and artistic ability. Teal blue is the colour symbolising renovation and renewal, so this possibly why a token in this colour was presented to the architect who renewed the building. The token measures 2 inches by 1 and 1/4 inches and is pierced for suspension.

£850

Barry’s design for the Royal Opera House