Thaleia 1829

Etienne Acille Réveil made this pencil drawing of Thaleia in France in the first half of the 19th century. Réveil here depicts Thaleia, the Greek muse of comedy and idyllic poetry. He was trained as a draughtsman, and became known for illustrating publications on ancient sculptures, such as the Musée de sculpture antique et moderne. The drawing revives classical aesthetics during a period of great social change. It speaks to the politics of imagery through the revival of classical aesthetic ideals in post-revolutionary France. The choice of subject, Thaleia, reflects a desire to reconnect with a glorious past but also, perhaps, signals a hope for cultural renewal through the arts. The rediscovery of classical art and literature influenced artistic and intellectual life. The historian’s role involves researching the institutional and social context of the drawing, which helps us understand its original meaning. By exploring the archives of the time, we gain insight into the public role of art and its engagement with social norms.