Figure 3

Citation

Jason L. Warner (New York, New York). “Irish dancers.” 1860s. Gregory Fried Collection. Mirror of Race, 22 Jan. 2021, mirrorofrace.bc.edu/items/show/102. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Title

Irish dancers

Subject

Irish dancer

Creator

Jason L. Warner (New York, New York)

Date

1860s

Type

Studio Portrait

Identifier

Figure 3

Rights Holder

Gregory Fried Collection

Original Format

Carte de visite

Factual Commentary

The two chidden, probably no more than 10 years old, seem to be Irish dancers. The pose in costume, in position to perform. The photographer has provided an elaborate painted backdrop of the interior of a rustic cottage to evoke old Ireland, complete with a jug on the floor. This suggests some serious planning, and expense, for this portrait, and these two may have been professional sibling performers. The boy’s costume is particularly distinctive, with a stylized top hat, swallow-tailed jacket, knee breeches, and a shillalagh.