Sarah Bernhardt som Adrienne Lecouvreur 1870s

This is an anonymous print portraying Sarah Bernhardt as Adrienne Lecouvreur. Bernhardt, a celebrated actress of the late 19th century, embodies the tragic figure of Lecouvreur, a real-life actress who died mysteriously, possibly poisoned, in 1730. Bernhardt defied the rigid gender norms of her time. Openly bisexual, she maintained a powerful position in society through her talent and persona. This image captures a moment of theatrical intensity, with Bernhardt’s expressive gesture and elaborate costume highlighting the drama inherent in Lecouvreur’s story. Note the inclusion of a theatrical mask at the bottom of the image. The artist draws upon a period in the 19th century when it was fashionable to retell history through a romantic lens. Bernhardt’s portrayal adds a layer of complexity, hinting at the struggles and triumphs of women in the performing arts. It serves not only as a historical reference, but also as a commentary on fame, gender, and the power of performance.