2-791-368 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Scene from Balfe's opera "The Daughter of St. Mark", 1844. Production at the Drury Lane Theatre in London. 'This extraordinary scene is, in the language of the libretto, a "Public Place in Nicosia", the capital of Cyprus. In the centre is an elevated stage, or scaffold, hung with black cloth, upon which stands the headsman; and an avenue of soldiers extends from thence to the front of the stage. On either side are erected superb pavilions for the King, Court, Archbishop, and Clergy. In the square formed by the soldiery, Black and Grey Penitents are kneeling. Immediately beneath the headsman stands a herald; and before him kneels the suppliant Catarina. The populace crowd on all sides, up to the extreme extent of the scene; the King conceals his face in his hands; Moncenigo stands by his side; a deep bell tolls, and muffled drums are beating'. From "Illustrated London News", 1844, Vol I.