Eugène Delacroix (1798-1863) - Lot 41

Eugène Delacroix (1798-1863) Théâtre Italien. 1821. Lithograph. 135 x 200. Delteil, Strauber 33. Fine proof on white vellum. Heavy foxing. Full margins. This caricature appeared in Le Miroir (issue of August 13, 1821). It depicts Rossini at the height of his fame, traditionally wearing Manuel Garcia (in the title role of Otello), soprano Joséphine Fodor-Mainvielle (in Rosine) and Pellegrini (as Figaro in Le Barbier de Séville). "This is a drawing of uncommon boldness and impertinence that deserves correction," says the daily's humorous bill. Rossini single-handedly supporting the entire Italian Opera!... What blasphemy! Delacroix may have been a bit provocative here, directed at the proponents of the "old musical regime", but he was nonetheless an enlightened music lover who could judge the modernity of the prolific Rossini." (Gallica, Les caricatures de Delacroix décryptées).