Artwork
The Common Dance of the Rufsian Peasants
The Common Dance of the Rufsian Peasants is a print by the Romanticist artist Thomas Cadell. It dates from 1823 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
This artwork is part of the collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum, where you can explore more works by artist Thomas Cadell.
The image depicts a print titled "The Common Dance of the Rufsian Peasants" by Thomas Cadell, created in November 1823. It showcases a genre scene featuring two individuals engaged in a lively dance. The woman, dressed in a long orange dress and a yellow head covering, holds a white cloth in her hands. The man, wearing a blue coat and red shorts, is dancing with a fish in his right hand and a black hat in his left.
The print is rendered in a Romanticism style, characterized by its emphasis on emotion and movement. The scene is set against a plain background, which serves to focus attention on the dancers.
This artwork is part of the collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum, where you can explore more works by artist Thomas Cadell.
Overview
The Common Dance of the Rufsian Peasants is a hand-coloured lithograph print created in November 1823 by Thomas Cadell. It is a genre scene depicting a lively folk dance.
Subject & Meaning
The print shows a man and woman in traditional Russian clothing dancing together. The woman holds a cloth or apron aloft, while the man holds a hat and possibly a fish, conveying a sense of dynamic movement and cultural heritage.
Technique & Style
Rendered in a Romanticism style, the print emphasizes emotion and energy. The plain background focuses attention on the dancers, highlighting their attire and actions.
History & Provenance
Published by Thomas Cadell in November 1823, the print was later acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum through the Cyril Beaumont Bequest.
Artist & collection
Artist
Thomas Cadell likely spent a lot of time observing everyday life, as seen in his detailed print, The Common Dance of the Rufsian Peasants.
