Antique 1845 Hand-Colored Ballet Triptych - "Beauties of the Opera"

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Antique 1845 Hand-Colored Ballet Triptych - "Beauties of the Opera"

A stunning and rare collection of three original mid-19th-century steel … Read more Antique 1845 Hand-Colored Ballet Triptych - "Beauties of the Opera"

A stunning and rare collection of three original mid-19th-century steel engravings, professionally matted and framed in a custom triptych. These plates were originally published in the landmark 1845 London edition of Beauties of the Opera and Ballet by David Bogue. The collection features portraits of the era's legendary prima ballerinas: Carlotta Grisi as Giselle, Fanny Elssler as Florinde, and Fanny Cerrito as Ondine. Each portrait is surrounded by a magnificent, hand-colored illuminated border in vibrant jewel tones and gold. A sophisticated and historic addition to any library, music room, or gallery wall.

Dimensions:
Width: 26.75"
Height: 15.25"

Provenance:
These are confirmed first-edition original steel engravings from the 1845 London publication by David Bogue. The bottom margins of the plates retain the original publisher's line: "London, Published for the Proprietor by David Bogue, 86 Fleet Street, April 1, 1844."

Condition:
Good antique condition. The engravings remain remarkably vibrant with clear, crisp detail and no significant fading to the hand-coloring. Commensurate with their 180-year history, the paper displays light toning and characteristic foxing in the margins. The reverse shows evidence of past moisture exposure to the protective paper dust cover, including tide marks and dark foxing/spotting. The gold-toned frame is structurally sound with minor age-appropriate wear. Ready to hang.

A beautifully preserved survivor of the Romantic Era, this triptych is a "must-have" for the serious collector of rare prints and dance history. See less