Finette

The early can-can dancer Finette is seen here in her stage costume of spangled shorts and flowing blouse, an outfit inspired by the traditional clothes of Neapolitan fishermen, with the addition of her trademark ‘Finette’ ribbon fluttering over her shoulder. Another signature, her prominent beauty spot - a cosmetic enhancement no respectable woman of the 1860s would have sported - is clearly visible on her upper-lip.

Photographed at the London branch of the great French photographer Disdéri.

The backplate for this carte incorporates the address of Disdéri’s London studio at 70, 71 and 72, Brook Street, which he briefly occupied in 1867 before moving to 4, Brook Street. The portrait therefore probably dates from around the time of her first appearance in London.