Édouard de Reszke

Édouard de Reszke (Polish: Edward Reszke; 22 December 1853 – 25 May 1917) was a Polish bass from Warsaw. A member of the musical Reszke family, he was a successful opera singer, as were his brother Jean and his sister Josephine. He made his debut in Verdi's Aida in Paris on 22 April 1876.

Born with an impressive natural voice and equipped with compelling histrionic skills, he became one of the most illustrious opera singers active in Europe and America during the late Victorian era. He is most famous for his role as Gounod's Mephistopheles in Faust. He was also known for his roles as Mozart's Leporello, and Wagner's Sachs and Hagen. When in London, the Reszke brothers performed for Queen Victoria during gala performances at the Royal Opera House or command performances at Windsor Castle. He was awarded the Royal Victorian Order (R.V.O.) from the Queen. The Reszke brothers were entertained near London by Lady de Grey, a patron of the arts.

After he retired from the stage, he taught singing until he had significant health problems. He and his family suffered during the First World War, cut off from others, with shooting through opposite sides of the house. His health worsened during the war and he died in 1917.