• Unknown, France, 18th century (draughtsman)
• Unknown, France, 18th century (theatre designer)

Presentation drawing for a stage set with alternate designs

probably between 1745-1775

- The two halves of this drawing show alternate stage sets from which the patron could make his choice. It is unclear whether this design was for a painted trompe-l'oeil stage backdrop and/or a constructed stage set. The deep unified space and low vanishing point of the central piazza/hemicycle interior indicates that this section is probably a painted trompe-l'oeil, however, the curtain pulled back within the central arch and the inscribed scale suggest that some of the architectural elements may have been constructed (Fuhring, 161 and 570). An etching of the Hermes is laid down on the left variant of the central portion of the drawing. The prickings indicate that the overall design was intended to be executed, and the crown above the central cartouche indicates a possible royal connection.

• dessin de présentation

Gouache and watercolour over graphite with white lead underpainting and highlights

DR1967:0010:002

• rendering

• interior elevation

• interior view

- The support is composed of two sheets abutted down the central vertical axis with a small etching adhered to the support along this axis. The image has been pricked for transfer.

inscribed - by an unknown hand, graphite, l.r.: "23" [and another number, illeg.]

• design de théâtre

• theatre design
• trompe-l'oeil