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.
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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
Print
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.