![Weisse Tänzerin in Kleinem Variété [White Dancer in a Cabaret]](http://www.nationalgalleries.org/media/15/collection/GMA 2924.jpg)
![La Jalousie II [Blind Jealousy II]](http://www.nationalgalleries.org/media/15/collection/GMA 2832.jpg)
Arthur Melville
Dancers at the Moulin Rouge
1889This fascinating impression of dancers in line on the stage of the Moulin Rouge recreates the fast movement of the dance called the ‘can-can'. Although the mingling of black and white appears abstract at first glance, the black stockings of the dancers are suggested by lines of watery pigment. Dabs of white describe the full petticoats revealed underneath the dancers' dresses as they move the gathered fabric from side to side to kick their legs up high.
Although pre-dating the Moulin Rouge, the ‘can-can' became representative of the scene there, made famous by the paintings and promotional posters of the French artist Toulouse-Lautrec. As the nineteenth century drew to a close, the British increasingly viewed French culture as the height of modern extravagance, which was probably part of its appeal to young British artists working in Paris.
- Glossary (2 terms)
- Open
French Revolution
A series of events that took place in 1791 leading to the end of the 'ancien régime', a complex political and social structure ruled over by an absolute monarch. Prompted by economic crisis and widespread food shortages, the Revolution resulted in the abolition of feudal rights and privileges, the reorganisation of the church, and a constitution that limited the powers of the monarch. These reforms provide the basis for the modern French state.
Watercolour
A paint with colouring and binding agents diluted with water. It has a transparent quality and is usually applied to paper.
- Glossary (4 terms)
- Open
Blottesque
A distinctive technique of watercolour painting using dabs of pigment on wet paper and blotting them with a sponge.
Glasgow Boys
A loose grouping of painters working in Glasgow in the late 19th century. Though there was no overall style or formal membership, they did exhibit together and shared an interest in rural scenes. Artists included John Lavery, Joseph Crawhall and James Guthrie.
Pigment
The colouring element in paint or dye.
Watercolour
A paint with colouring and binding agents diluted with water. It has a transparent quality and is usually applied to paper.
- Credits Purchased 1995
- Medium Watercolour on paper
- Size 9.20 x 15.10 cm
