Artwork

Cinderella

Cinderella, by Eugen Napoleon Neureuther, 1847
Cinderella, by Eugen Napoleon Neureuther, 1847

Cinderella is a print by the Romanticist artist Eugen Napoleon Neureuther. It dates from 1847 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Cinderella is an etching by Eugen Neureuther that visually narrates the classic fairy tale of Cinderella through multiple interwoven scenes.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts the transformation of a neglected servant girl, aided by a fairy godmother, into a princess who captures the heart of a prince through the iconic glass slipper. It reflects the story's themes of redemption, love, and the power of external aid.

Technique & Style

Executed as an elaborate etching, the work showcases Neureuther's detailed craftsmanship, characteristic of the medium's capabilities in conveying intricate narratives through layered scenes.

History & Provenance

Created during the early 19th century, the etching coincides with a resurgence of interest in folk tales in Germany, tapping into a national desire to reconnect with cultural heritage.

Context

Part of a broader cultural phenomenon in early 19th-century Germany, the work aligns with a period where folktales experienced a revival, driven by a quest for national identity and roots.

Legacy

Now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, 'Cinderella' serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of fairy tales and the artistic interpretations they inspired during the folk tale revival in Germany.

Artist & collection

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