Scene in the Wings of a Theatre WA1972.18 Oxford Almanack for 1799

Oxford Almanack for 1799

the Glasgow merchant

Danäe bore a son to Jove

was begun in 1886 but not completed until two years later

Annibale Carracci's Choice of Hercules in the Palazzo Farnese was a source for the composition

Scene in the Wings of a Theatre WA1972.18 Oxford Almanack for 1799Forain's interest in themes from the ballet was formed through his friendship with Degas. His ballet pictures mostly date from between the late 1870s and 1900. He was a successful caricaturist and illustrator and he often introduced an illustrative or satirical note into his work. The scene probably takes place between the acts. An 'abonn' in top hat lurks in the background.