Cleopatre.
?Paris, “Printed by His Majesty’s Express Command” 1748.
8vo (195 x 122 mm.). 20p. Typographic title ornaments.
Stab-stitched in a 19th-century drab paper wrapper (spine chipped), front wrapper with author, title, date and c 100 in manuscript.
In this three-scene ballet héroïque, Cleopatra sails to Tarsus and seduces Mark Antony, initiating one of the most fateful romances. On 26 March 1748 at Versailles, Cleopatra was staged in the Théâtre des Petits Cabinets under the patronage of Mme. de Pompadour (1712-64) — lyrics by Fuzelier, music by Collin de Blamont, choreography by ballet master Dehesse and costumes by Peronnet. The lead role was danced by Marie Angélique, duchesse de Brancas, now known for her Mémoires. In good condition (occasional light spots).
¶Cioranescu 29920; Jullien, Histoire du théâtre de Madame de Pompadour 15 & 30; see Harris-Warrick’s Dance and Drama in French Baroque Opera 302-6.
Price: $1,200.00