The Willow Song, plate nine from Othello

Shakespeare’s tragic tale of the Moorish general Othello, his bride, Desdemona, and the scheming Iago explores the timeless themes of racism, love, jealously, and betrayal. The play had gained considerable popularity in France by 1844. Though little is known of the specifics of this particular commission, it was a project that captivated Théodore Chassériau for years. These two prints, from Chassériau’s series of 15 plates, illustrate the emotional crescendo of Desdemona and Othello’s relationship. Plate 9 tenderly represents Desdemona’s despair when she sings the Willow Song. Her words—“Let nobody blame him; his scorn I approve”—are prophetic. Later, convinced of her infidelity, Othello smothers her with a pillow. Plate 14 shows the moment Emilia tells Othello of Desdemona’s innocence and Iago’s treachery. Chassériau’s use of gesture links the three central characters in a dramatic pyramidal composition that conveys the poignant meaning of the scene.