Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Ethelbert White, 1919
Untitled, by Ethelbert White, 1919

Untitled is a drawing by Ethelbert White. It dates from 1919 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This drawing by Ethelbert White captures a moment backstage at a London theatre during a performance of the ballet Le Tricorne.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts a mix of performers and stagehands, including a man adjusting a stage light, in the wings of the theatre, offering a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes activity of a ballet performance.

History & Provenance

The drawing was likely created in 1919, as part of a series commissioned by Cyril Beaumont to illustrate his publications on the Russian Ballet, including Impressions of the Russian Ballet: The Three-Cornered Hat.

Context

Le Tricorne, with designs by Pablo Picasso and choreography by Leonide Massine, was performed by Serge Diaghilev's Ballets Russes, a renowned ballet company known for its innovative productions.

Artist & collection

Artist

Ethelbert White

Ethelbert White was an English artist and wood engraver. He was an early member of the Society of Wood Engravers and a founding member of the English Wood Engraving Society in 1925. He also worked in oils and water…