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The image shows an etching of a gathering of elegantly dressed figures in an outdoor setting. The horizon line is high in the image, obscured by trees. The detailed line work and cross-hatching give texture and depth. The color palette is monochromatic, using black and white. Closest to us, a group of individuals in opulent attire are engaging in conversation or dance. In the background, trees arch overhead, blending into the lush surroundings.
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The image shows an etching of a gathering of elegantly dressed figures in an outdoor setting. The horizon line is high in the image, obscured by trees. The detailed line work and cross-hatching give texture and depth. The color palette is monochromatic, using black and white. Closest to us, a group of individuals in opulent attire are engaging in conversation or dance. In the background, trees arch overhead, blending into the lush surroundings.

National Gallery of Art · Print

Ballet at the Opera

Pierre-François Basan after Gabriel Jacques de Saint-Aubin

Date
1761
Medium
etching
Dimensions
sheet: 33.6 × 39 cm (13 1/4 × 15 3/8 in.)
Classification
Print
Accession number
1942.9.2465
Credit line
Widener Collection
Time span
1751 to 1775
Department
CG-E
Original NGA record Wikidata

Subjects and terms

  • French
  • Tree
  • Dancer
  • Costume
  • Grass
  • Figures

NGA object ID 3096. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.