The Pet of the Ballet.
1843
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1843
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This print shows a dancer from the 1840s ballet world. It’s part of a set of eight images that focus on the background performers, not the stars. These “extras” had nicknames like ‘little rats’ in Paris because they looked thin and kept snacks close. The artist chose a slightly funny, honest style instead of making them look perfect. Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see this print in person.