Artwork
Madlle Fanny Cerito (sic)
Madlle Fanny Cerito (sic) is a print by the Romanticist artist John Deffett Francis. It dates from 20 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This print depicts a ballerina in a flowing white costume, evoking a sense of ethereal beauty against a dark background.
About this work
Overview
This print depicts a ballerina in a flowing white costume, evoking a sense of ethereal beauty against a dark background.
Subject & Meaning
The figure is likely inspired by the Sylph from the ballet La Sylphide, a symbol of the ideal woman and a reflection of the Romantic era's fascination with the supernatural and escape from reality.
Technique & Style
The print showcases the ballerina's costume, characterized by a bell-shaped skirt and low neckline, a style that became iconic for ballet dancers following La Sylphide's success.
Context
The ballet La Sylphide, which premiered in the early 1830s, influenced the popular image of a ballerina, with its costume design evolving into a standard for dancers.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
John Deffett Francis was a Welsh portrait painter and art collector. He is particularly well known for his portraits of figures such as Queen Victoria and the British prime minister Sir Robert Peel, and the bequests of…
