Artwork
Les Lorettes

Les Lorettes is a print by the Romanticist artist Paul Gavarni. It dates from 1842 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1942.967
- Credit line
- Gift of George W. Bierce
About this work
Overview
Les Lorettes, an 1842 print by French artist Paul Gavarni, depicts a nuanced, dimly lit scene of two figures in a simple room, inviting interpretation of their interaction.
Subject & Meaning
The print shows a woman, back turned, holding a fan, and a man facing her, grasping a curtain. Their posed, slightly awkward stances suggest a theatrical or comedic moment, potentially referencing Parisian stage culture, as hinted by the title.
Technique & Style
Gavarni employs a restrained, low-light setting with a plain floor and off-center lighting from the left, contributing to the intimate, staged ambiance of the scene.
History & Provenance
Created in 1842, Les Lorettes is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Paul Gavarni was the pen name of Sulpice Guillaume Chevalier, a French illustrator, born in Paris.

















