Plate III, Four Bear Trainers Sweeping the Ground, from Ballet of Bears with Parrots, Ballet by Jean Baptiste Balbi for "La Finta Pazza" c. 17th century

Curator: Valerio Spada created this piece, "Plate III, Four Bear Trainers Sweeping the Ground," which is part of the series, Ballet of Bears with Parrots. The ballet was originally composed by Jean Baptiste Balbi for the opera "La Finta Pazza". Editor: My first thought? Elegant janitors! There's something so wonderfully absurd about this scene – these poised figures, feather-adorned hats and all, meticulously sweeping what looks like an enormous, empty stage. Curator: The "Ballet of Bears" was likely a popular interlude within the opera, adding spectacle and amusement. The print provides insight into the performative aspects of courtly entertainment during the 17th century. Editor: It’s intriguing how Spada manages to convey both the grandeur and the ridiculousness of the court. This isn't just about bears and parrots; it's a commentary on performance, expectation, and the role of artifice. Curator: Precisely. Consider how the print itself – a reproducible medium – democratizes access to courtly entertainments, circulating imagery and ideas far beyond the elite circles. Editor: Right, a glimpse into a world most couldn't enter. It’s a strange, captivating little drama, isn’t it? Even without the bears, the ballet continues.