Le bal pare
1774
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1774
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This print shows a big, fancy room packed with people. Men in powdered wigs and fancy coats stand around. Women wear long dresses with big skirts. A few people dance, others talk or sit. The walls are decorated with gold trim, and chandeliers hang from the ceiling. Heavy curtains cover the windows. Look closer at the faces—some people seem bored, others are chatting. The artist used shading to show light and shadow, making the scene feel alive. Want to know more? Try looking up etching, drypoint, aquatint.
