Design for a Stage Set at the Opéra, Paris 1830 - 1890

Eugène Cicéri made this stage set design for the Paris Opéra using watercolor and gouache. It provides a glimpse into the world of 19th-century French opera and the lavish spectacles that were so popular at the time. This design, depicting a seascape with rocky cliffs, reveals the importance of visual codes in theatrical productions. The Opéra in Paris was not just a place for musical performance; it was a social institution where the aristocracy and bourgeoisie came to see and be seen. Stage design played a crucial role in creating an immersive experience for the audience, reinforcing social hierarchies and cultural values. To truly understand this artwork, we can look into the archives of the Paris Opéra, examining the librettos, costume designs, and critical reviews of the period. This helps us see the opera as a reflection of its own time. The design is contingent on social and institutional context.