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The Dancer of Tanjore (La bayadère de Tanjore)

Albert Besnard

National Gallery of Art

The image shows an etching of two figures: a musician and a dancer. The dancer is depicted from behind, showcasing their entire body as they perform in the center of the image. The dancer's arm is raised while another is bent, embodying movement. The dancer's face cannot be seen, but their hair is styled up. They wear a flowing skirt with a tight-fitting top, giving the illusion of layered fabric. The musician, situated on the left side, is depicted from the waist up, with a visible face and close-cropped hair or head covering. They play a stringed instrument, holding it with one hand and using a bow with the other. The background features intricate, abstract patterns indicating a dark, indoor setting that contrasts with the figures.

Artwork Details

Date
1914
Medium
etching, drypoint, and printed tone on wove paper
Dimensions
3518 × 4757 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original