Design for a Stage Set at the Opéra, Paris 1825 - 1890

This design for a stage set at the Opéra in Paris by Eugène Cicéri, a prominent 19th-century French scenic designer, depicts a classically inspired architectural structure, partially obscured by a grand arch of trees. The drawing is a delicate blend of detail and suggestion, highlighting the dramatic potential of the imagined set. The use of cut-outs and gridlines suggests a stage set design for a theatrical performance. The composition is a masterful example of Cicéri's skill in translating architectural and natural elements into a dynamic stage setting. This design, currently in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into the creative processes of stage design during the 19th century, providing a valuable insight into the world of opera.