Montagnes Russes (Russian Mountains), 1889
Color lithograph on cream paperexpand_more
Gift of Kate Butler Petersonexpand_more 2010.107.2
Not on Viewexpand_more
Roller coasters were a recently developed diversion in 1889, and this one in the Boulevard des Capucines was open to adventure-seekers every day of the week. The ride involved an actual element of danger, given its lack of modern restraining devices. Journalist Camille Debans, however, scoffed at the daring of those who rode this coaster. In his guide to Paris, he recalled how men and women stood during rides on an 1817 Parisian roller coaster, sometimes tumbling to their deaths. By comparison, the riders depicted by Jules Chéret "sit in a bourgeois manner on benches" and finally disembark "with a trace of vain satisfaction, as if worthy of admiration for the danger faced." Indeed, the bright smiles worn by Chéret's riders emphasize the fun of the ride rather than its hazards. But whatever their degree of risk, the intense experience of roller coasters thrilled riders into losing themselves completely and living only in the moment.
Details
- Title
- Montagnes Russes (Russian Mountains)
- Artist Life
- (Paris, Nice), 1836–1932
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2010.107.2
- Provenance
- Kate Butler Peterson, Minneapolis; given to MIA, 2010.
- Catalogue Raisonne
- Broido 342; Maindron 275
- Curator Approved
This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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