Director
Edwin H. Knopf
Studio
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Art Direction
Daniel B. Cathcart, Cedric Gibbons
Scenic Art Supervisor
Description
Created for The Law and the Lady (1951), this backdrop depicts an interior view of the famed Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco. Rich architectural ornament, gilded moldings, marble columns, and decorative lighting recreate the elegance associated with one of Europe's most celebrated gaming destinations during the early twentieth century.
Produced under the supervision of George Gibson at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, the backdrop demonstrates the studio's approach to large-scale scenic painting. Careful perspective, balanced architectural detail, and coordinated color relationships create the illusion of depth while supporting the actors and action on the soundstage.
The backdrop also reflects the craftsmanship that characterized MGM's scenic art department during Hollywood's studio era. Today it is preserved in the Texas Performing Arts Hollywood Backdrop Collection as an example of the artistry and technical skill required to recreate grand international interiors for motion pictures.
This backdrop had been part of the rental inventory of JC Backings and was selected for a film that required adaptation at which point Joe Francruz added latex paint to update the staircase at the base of the backdrop and his team also painted over the fresco paintings in the center of the backdrop.
Place
Monte Carlo, Monaco, 1900s
Date
1951
Dimensions
28’-3” x 19’-5”
Medium
Dry color and gelatin binder on cotton muslin
Style
Interior Architecture
Credit
Gift of J.C. Backings Corporation
Photo Credit
ADG Archives, Melinda Sue Gordon
An international jewel thief and con artist finds love on the run.
