19th Century Photography   Paul Frecker London

Home      Grading      How to buy      Library      Links      Contact

Rigolboche (real name Marguerite Bedel, or possibly, Badel) was one of the foremost proponents of the cancan during the Second Empire, a dance which first emerged in a recognizable form during the 1830s. After the Bal du Prado closed in 1860, she danced at the Délassements-Comiques; she also frequented the Casino Cadet. By 1860, she was notorious enough to publish her memoirs.

Unlike her contemporary, Finette, Rigolboche survived in great style, built herself a mansion and died a wealthy matron in 1920.

She is seen here wearing her signature trademark, a preposterous blonde wig, and making the gesture that became her visual 'catchphrase.’

condition: Excellent.
price:   not for sale
code: ad521
Back to list...



Disdéri      Camille Silvy      post-mortem     

© Paul Frecker London 2003