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

Eugène Cicéri made this stage set design for the Paris Opéra with watercolor and graphite. The Opéra was more than just a theater; it was a symbol of French cultural identity and power, particularly during the 19th century. Cicéri’s design suggests an interest in realism, evident in the architectural details and the play of light and shadow. This was a period when set design was becoming increasingly elaborate, aiming for historical accuracy and emotional impact. The Paris Opéra, supported by the state, played a crucial role in shaping artistic tastes and promoting French culture both at home and abroad. To fully understand this design, we can turn to theater history, architectural studies, and social histories of the Opéra itself. These resources would provide a richer understanding of how this image reflects its time. Stage designs are not just aesthetic objects, but products of social, economic, and institutional forces.