The Dance of the Almeh

About the Art

Gérôme’s convincing realism, as well as his choice of both historic and non-European subjects, made him one of the most famous and successful artists of his time. His approach epitomizes the French Academic style of the nineteenth century.

The title of this painting refers to the Arabic word analeim, meaning learned woman, which originally applied to professional female improvisers of songs and poems. However, to Europeans, by 1850 the term meant almost any woman dancer. Through lighting and placement, the painting’s focus is clearly centered on the dancer, who stands apart from the darker background. Importance is also given to the Albanian mercenary soldier, or Bashi-Bazouk, seated to the left. His arms and leg help create a static, enclosed diamond shape that contrasts the dancer’s open stance.

FEATURED IMAGE
Jean-Léon Gérôme (French, 1824–1904), The Dance of the Almeh, 1863, oil on wood, 19 3/4 x 32 inches(50.2 x 81.3 cm). Gift of Mr. Robert Badenhop, 1951.15