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The image shows a detailed drawing of several people seated in a balcony or theater box. The individuals are closely positioned next to each other, facing forward. Many are reading from books or documents. The drawing features exaggerated facial features, exaggerated noses, distinctive expressions, and various hairstyles ranging from curly to straight, some tied back. The clothing appears formal with visible collars and elaborate shoulder decorations. One figure on the left in the lower section wears a distinctive hat or headpiece. The individuals do not wear visible jewelry but hold papers. The background hints at a crowded setting, possibly a theater or courtroom, with additional figures in the upper rows and engravings on the upper walls.
National Gallery of Art · Print
A Choral Band
Lydia Bates after John Hamilton Mortimer
- Date
- c. 1784
- Medium
- etching in brown
- Dimensions
- sheet: 24.1 × 28.9 cm (9 1/2 × 11 3/8 in.)
- Classification
- Accession number
- 1980.45.1737
- Credit line
- Rosenwald Collection
- Time span
- 1776 to 1800
- Department
- CG-E
Subjects and terms
- British
- interior
- architecture
- group
- figure
- Musical instrument
- Book
NGA object ID 59486. 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.