The Rope Dance
Medium
Oil on wood
Dimensions
19 7/8 x 28 5/8 in. (50.5 x 72.7 cm)
Classification
Paintings
Department
European Paintings
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, 1871
Accession Number
71.105
Tags
Art Historical Context
Léonard Defrance'sThe Rope Dance*, an enchanting oil on wood panel from the 18th century, captures lively spectacle of a tightrope walker entertaining a diverse crowd. Painted with meticulous detail on a wooden support—ideal for the fine brushwork typical of genre scenes—this 19⅞ × 28⅝-inch work depicts men, women, and spectators gathered in rapt attention, their expressions blending awe, amusement, and everyday curiosity. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1871, it exemplifies Defrance's skill in rendering dynamic public performances. As a Belgian artist influenced by Flemish and ...