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Conversation with a Ballerina in the Wings
Jean-Louis Forainca. 1885 - 1890
Dixon Gallery and Gardens
Memphis, United States
Details
- Title: Conversation with a Ballerina in the Wings
- Creator: Jean-Louis Forain
- Creator Lifespan: 1852 - 1931
- Creator Nationality: French
- Creator Gender: Male
- Creator Death Place: Paris, France
- Creator Birth Place: Reims, France
- Date: ca. 1885 - 1890
- Physical Dimensions: 13 3/8 x 8 1/2 inches
- Description: “I was born in Reims on the 23rd of October 1852 and I adore ballet,” was the way Forain introduced himself in 1888 to the readers of Le Courrier français, the journal that first published his drawings devoted to the ballet. This elliptical expression affirmed his passion for dance, a theme that he would embrace throughout his life. Forain was introduced to the world of the Opéra by his friend and mentor, Edgar Degas. The young artist explored the themes of performance in very personal ways. Whereas Degas tended to focus on the dancers themselves, usually during on stage or in rehearsal, Forain was more intrigued by what transpired off-stage—the activity in the wings and loges. In that vein, Conversation with a Ballerina in the Wings depicts a wealthy abonné, or season-ticket holder to the ballet, preying on a coquettish ballerina in the wings, presumably after a performance. The young dancer, however, was often a willing participant in this arrangement, seeking financial security in the deep pockets of the abonné.
- Provenance: Museum purchase with funds provided by Brenda and Lester Crain, Hyde Family Foundations, Irene and Joe Orgill and the Rose Family Foundation
- Type: Pen-and-wash drawings
- Rights: Dixon Gallery and Gardens. For Terms and Conditions for use of this image please contact the Registrar at 901-761-5250.
- Medium: Pen and ink, ink wash on paper, mounted on board
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