Design for a Stage Set 1830 - 1890

This pencil drawing by Eugène Cicéri is a design for a stage set, likely for an opera or theatrical production. Created between 1830 and 1890, the design depicts a scene with palm trees in the foreground and a rocky cliff face in the background. The artist has used shading to create a sense of depth and realism, highlighting the textural details of the plants and rocks. Cicéri, known for his set designs, was a prominent figure in the French theatre world and this sketch exemplifies the meticulous planning and artistry involved in creating stage scenery. The work, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of 19th-century theatrical production.