Typed contract (3 pp.) signed by the great Russian bass, engaging Chaliapin to sing in Boris Godunoff at La Scala from March 22 to April 3, 1930. Signed by Chaliapin on the last page and dated Milan, March 25, 1930. Hole punches, light toning; overall fine. 8.25 x 12 inches (21 x 30.2 cm).

Mussorgsky's Boris Godunov was Chaliapin's signature role, a part that he first learned under the guidance of Sergei Rachmaninoff and from which he recorded excerpts in the 1920's–1930's. It was largely owing to Chaliapin's advocacy that Russian operas such as Boris became known in the West, with Chaliapin performing in the English premiere of the opera in 1913. Boris was also Chaliapin's last role, performed shortly before his death from leukemia in 1938.