An original lithographed theatrical programme entitled “Soirée du Juin 1836”, issued for a private aristocratic literary evening held in June 1836.
Rather than being intended for the general public, this programme documents an exclusive private performance in which members of the European aristocracy participated in staged literary recitations inspired by leading Romantic authors of the period.
Beautifully printed within an elaborate architectural border inspired by Moorish and Neo-Classical motifs, the programme is an attractive example of early nineteenth-century decorative lithography.
Literary Programme
The evening comprised two principal performances:
“Fridolin ou Der Gang zum Eisenhammer”
A French adaptation of Friedrich Schiller’s celebrated Romantic ballad Der Gang zum Eisenhammer (1797), performed by an aristocratic amateur cast including:
- Comte de Bernstorff
- Comtesse Stéphanie Tascher
- Marquis César Pallavicini
and other members of European high society.
The second performance presents:
“Lazzara” by Victor Hugo
A dramatic recitation of Poem XXI from Victor Hugo’s celebrated collection Les Orientales (1829).
Inspired by the Greek War of Independence, the poem reflects the strong Philhellenic movement that influenced European Romantic literature during the early nineteenth century.
Among the performers are members of the distinguished Gagarin family, including:
- Prince G. Gagarin
- Prince Eugène Gagarin
together with Comtesse Aimée Tascher.
Artistic Presentation
The programme is enclosed within a finely executed lithographic border depicting an ornate horseshoe arch supported by classical fluted columns, crowned by a heraldic crest.
Its elegant design is representative of French Romantic decorative printing of the 1830s and makes the document particularly suitable for display.
Specifications
- Country: France
- Date: June 1836
- Title: Soirée du Juin 1836
- Printing technique: Lithograph
- Language: French
- Dimensions: 37 × 23 cm
Condition
Good original condition for its age.
The document displays the expected horizontal and vertical folding lines from original storage, together with light handling wear, minor creasing and age-related toning. The lithographic printing remains clear and well preserved.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description.


