One of a triptych of American 'window cards' for George Balanchine's three act ballet, Jewels created for New York City Ballet at the State Theatre, New York, USA. 13 April 1967. Each of the acts represented a different jewel and this window card represented the first act 'Emeralds'. These window cards became iconic advertising material.
Balanchine was said to have been inspired by a visit to the jeweller Van Cleef and Arpels and the three jewels selected Emeralds, Rubies and Diamonds were reflected in the costumes designed by Karinska, the sets designed by Peter Harvey and lighting by Ronald Bates. Each section also reflected the countries with which Balanchine was most closely associated; France, USA and Russia respectively. Emeralds, a romantic section was danced to music by Gabriel Faure from Pelleas and Melisande (18898) and Shylock (1889). The dreamy, lyrical act was led by dancers VioletteVerdy, Conrad Ludlow, Mimi Paul, Francisco Moncion, Sara Leland, Suki Schorer and John Prinz. Verdy described it as 'reserved, proportioned, elegant'.
Jewels was a popular ballet in New York from its creation and has gradually captured attention internationally. It has been staged by many companies often with new designs.