An extraordinary surviving piece of New Orleans Carnival history, this monumental hand-painted theatrical backdrop depicts the jeweled palace of the Nome King from L. Frank Baum's celebrated Oz stories.
Created for the Krewe of Athenians' 1941 Oz-themed Mardi Gras tableau, this breathtaking scenic panel portrays the magnificent palace of the Nome King, its domed towers and ornate architecture shimmering with jewel-like ornamentation. Cascading roses and lush oversized foliage frame the fantastical city, creating one of the most visually striking scenic compositions from the celebrated 1941 production.
Measuring approximately 22 feet high by 28.5 feet wide, this immense backdrop was originally part of a much larger theatrical tableau displayed during New Orleans Mardi Gras festivities. Rich colors, expressive brushwork, and its monumental scale give the piece exceptional presence, functioning equally as historic stage scenery and as a dramatic work of American folk art.
Whether installed in a grand residence, commercial space, hotel, restaurant, theater, museum, or private collection, this remarkable backdrop creates an unforgettable focal point while preserving an important piece of Carnival history.
This backdrop pairs with the surviving Nome King character panel from the same 1941 tableau, offering collectors the rare opportunity to reunite major elements of the original production.
Dimensions: Approximately 22 feet high × 28.5 feet wide.
Estimated Weight: Approximately 60 lbs.
Condition: Good antique condition consistent with its original use as temporary Mardi Gras stage scenery. The backdrop displays age-related fold creases, wrinkling, scattered paint loss, surface abrasions, minor tears, edge wear, previous repairs, and areas of fraying visible from both the front and reverse. These characteristics reflect its historic use and decades of storage and contribute to its authentic character. Please review all photographs carefully.
A remarkable surviving example of early twentieth-century New Orleans Carnival artistry from the DOP Antiques collection of historic Mardi Gras tableau scenery.
