A Nymph dancing with a tambourine

George Romney British

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 690

This vibrant image of a woman dancing with a tambourine relates to several of Romney's paintings, notably "The Leveson-Gower Children," 1777 (Abbot Hall Art Gallery, Kendal), one of the artist's most important portraits. The pose was a starting point for the oldest girl in that work, who stands holding a tambourine. Classical art had long-inspired Romney and he had recently returned from an extended visit to Italy. Journeying south in 1772, the artist saw May Day dancers in Nice, whom he noted, moved "with the greatest vivacity and spirit: the air of antiquity had the most enchanting effect." "Nymph dancing with a tambourine" demonstrates the artist's determination to bring the classical world to life.

A Nymph dancing with a tambourine, George Romney (British, Beckside, Lancashire 1734–1802 Kendal, Cumbria), Graphite and brown wash (recto); graphite (verso)

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