La Sevillane 1889

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen created this poster, La Sevillane, likely using lithography, to advertise a piece of music for piano by Cécile Chaminade. We can see a woman dancing, accompanied by musicians; this theatrical depiction evokes a sense of Spanish culture, as imagined by Parisians. The image creates meaning through established visual codes. The dancer’s elaborate dress, along with the musicians in the background, point to a particular construction of Spanish identity and how it might have been viewed in France. Steinlen, who worked in France at the turn of the century, was known for his political engagement and interest in social justice. To more fully understand this image, we might investigate the reception of Spanish culture in France at this time, and the status of women composers in the Parisian music scene. Careful research into the historical context can reveal the complex social dynamics that shaped its creation.