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Keying Up, c.1885. Creator: William Merritt Chase
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Keying Up, c.1885. Creator: William Merritt Chase
Keying Up, c.1885
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Media ID 36212053
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Anxiety Anxious Backstage Chase William Merritt Drinking Fool Jester Nervous William Merritt Chase Wings Impressionist Playhouse
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Keying Up
EDITORS COMMENTS
by William Merritt Chase, c.1885, is a captivating black and white etching on cream china paper that transports us back to the 19th century United States and the world of live theater. The image depicts a solitary figure, a man dressed in an elaborate jester costume, backstage in a playhouse. His anxious expression and furrowed brow convey a sense of nervous anticipation, as if he is about to step out onto the stage for a performance. The man clutches a drink in one hand, adding to the sense of tension and excitement. The etching's title, "Keying Up," likely refers to the act of preparing oneself mentally and emotionally for a performance. The jester's costume, complete with bells and colorful patterns, adds a touch of whimsy and folly to the scene, while the stark contrast between the man's anxious expression and the ornate apparel highlights the dual nature of performance - the public mask versus the private emotions. This print, now housed in the Art Institute of Chicago, is a prime example of William Merritt Chase's Impressionist style, with its focus on capturing the fleeting moment and the play of light and shadow. The etching's location in the gallery invites us to contemplate the heritage of American art and the rich history of live theater in the United States. Whether viewed as a standalone work of art or as part of a larger collection, "Keying Up" is sure to inspire wonder and reflection.
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