The artwork titled “Nancy Hallam as Fidele in Shakespeare’s Cymbeline” was created by Charles Willson Peale in the year 1771. This painting, belonging to the Rococo art movement, is a portrait genre piece.
The artwork portrays Nancy Hallam, an actress, in the guise of Fidele, a character from Shakespeare’s play “Cymbeline”. Hallam is dressed in elaborate period costume, embodying a theatrical and dramatic presence. She is depicted standing at the entrance of a dimly lit cave, her figure illuminated against the darkened backdrop. The composition of the piece showcases detailed craftsmanship, with rich textures and delicate patterns on her clothing, coupled with a serene landscape in the background. The painterly style of Peale, characterized by its smooth brushwork and attention to ornamental detail, is evident, capturing the essence of Rococo’s intricate elegance.
