Fanny Elssler
1840-1842
Capturing the absolute madness of 'Elsslermania' that swept the United States in the early 1840s, this drawing shows Austrian dancer Fanny Elssler triumphantly balancing on a globe labeled 'America.' While she strikes a pose in her fringed dress—likely performing her famous, fiery cachucha dance—kings and politicians grovel at her feet in total worship. On the far right, a figure labeled 'Modesty' weeps into her hands, scandalized by the dancer's fame which rivaled even the ethereal Marie Taglioni.