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People of the Theatre
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People of the Theatre
The actress : the dancer : the woman who shows you to your seat (and expects a pourboire) : and the woman who sells you a bouquet or a buttonhole Date: 1820s
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Media ID 14289865
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1820s Bouquet Buttonhole Dancer Expects Seat Sells
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the essence of a theatrical evening in France during the 1820s. At the heart of the scene is the captivating actress, her expressive face illuminated by the footlights as she delivers a passionate performance. To her left, a graceful dancer poised in a elegant pose, her movements a visual complement to the spoken word. But the theatre experience was not just about the performers on stage. In the background, a woman in a smartly-dressed uniform guides a gentleman to his seat with a knowing smile. This was the "concierge de loge," a figure familiar to audiences of the time. Her role was to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for patrons, but her expectation of a "pourboire," or tip, was a common practice. Adding to the atmosphere, another woman, perhaps the "bouquetière," sells fresh flowers to patrons as they enter the theatre. A bouquet or buttonhole was a sign of elegance and refinement, and the sweet scent of the blossoms only added to the allure of the evening. This charming print offers a glimpse into the rich history of the French theatre, where the performers and the supporting cast worked together to create an unforgettable experience for audiences. The actress, the dancer, the concierge, and the bouquetière each played their part in the grand production that was a night at the theatre in the 1820s.
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