First Scene of The Rhinegold 1876

This black and white lithograph, "First Scene of The Rhinegold," by Henri Fantin-Latour depicts a scene from Richard Wagner's opera *Das Rheingold*, the first installment in the *Ring Cycle*. The artwork shows the Rhine Maidens, Freia, Woglinde, and Wellgunde, emerging from the water and holding the magical Rhinegold, which is the source of immense power. The image is a visual representation of the beginning of a powerful and influential story in opera. Created in 1876, this print was likely made in honor of the opera's premiere, which had taken place in Munich the previous year. Fantin-Latour's work is known for its precise detail and realism, which can be seen in the flowing hair and the form of the water in this print.