Artwork

Mascarade à la Grecque: Title Page, Plate 1

Mascarade à la Grecque: Title Page, Plate 1, by Benigno Bossi, 1771
Mascarade à la Grecque: Title Page, Plate 1, by Benigno Bossi, 1771

Mascarade à la Grecque: Title Page, Plate 1 is a print by the Romanticist artist Benigno Bossi. It dates from 1771 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

You see a fancy title page with dancing figures in Greek-style costumes, swirling ribbons, and a big urn.

You see a fancy title page with dancing figures in Greek-style costumes, swirling ribbons, and a big urn.

This print was made to show off a book of costume designs. It’s the very first edition—later copies added the word “Milano” at the top. The artist drew every curl of hair and fold of fabric so clearly you can almost feel the fabric.

If you like this mix of theater and drawing, look up the subject *Italy, 18th century*.

Overview

Mascarade à la Grecque: Title Page, Plate 1 is a print designed as the introductory page for a collection of costume designs. The composition features dancing figures in Greek-inspired attire, surrounded by swirling ribbons and a prominent urn, showcasing a blend of theatrical and artistic elements.

Subject & Meaning

The subject matter revolves around a theatrical scene with figures dressed in Greek-style costumes, emphasizing the 18th-century European fascination with classical themes in theater and design. The print highlights the intersection of art, fashion, and performance.

Technique & Style

Characterized by meticulous detail, the print showcases the artist's ability to render intricate textures, from the curls of hair to the folds of fabric, achieving a high level of realism. The style reflects the ornamental and expressive trends of its time.

History & Provenance

This is the first edition of the print, distinguishable by the absence of 'Milano' on the title page, a detail added in later editions. Documented in notable catalogs such as Berlin II (no. 475) and Cohen-de Ricci (178), it is recognized within collections of rare and ornamental prints.

Context

Created in 18th-century Italy, the print taps into the contemporary interest in classical Greek motifs and the burgeoning theatrical culture. It would have appealed to designers, theater enthusiasts, and those fascinated by Greek revival aesthetics.

Legacy

While specific long-term impacts on art history are not highlighted in available sources, the print remains a notable example of 18th-century Italian design and theatrical illustration, potentially influencing subsequent costume and set designs through its detailed and classical approach.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Benigno Bossi

Artist

Benigno Bossi

Benigno Bossi (1727–1792) was an Italian artist, born in Arcisate.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.