Sealed Lips

# Museum Catalog Note

Sealed Lips (Bouche Close), translated from the French of Léon de Tinseau by Anna Dyer Page, depicts the aftermath of a triumphant operatic premiere in Paris. The central figure is Antoine Godefroid, an accomplished composer whose new opera "Constantin XII" has just achieved success at the Opéra. Following the performance, Godefroid encounters his old friend Patrice, recently arrived in Paris from Lyon, impoverished and seeking work. The narrative establishes contrasts between Godefroid's artistic triumph and social position against Patrice's financial struggles and modest prospects. Speculation arises among theater staff concerning Godefroid's relationship with the opera's debutante lead, Jenny Sauval, who performed the role of Princess Adossides. The serial comprises thirty-two chapters following the unfolding romantic and social entanglements that develop from this reunion between the two friends.