An unexpected little treasure among the NMI archives is a collection of objects which have belonged to the famous ballet dancer Marie Taglioni (1804-1884). Taglioni is one of the most important figures in dance history. As Sylphide she has created the archetype of the romantic ballerina: ethereal, apparently weightless, in contact with the earth only through the tips of her toes.

The objects in this collection have inspired musicologist Lodewijk Muns to a search for their connections and meaning within Taglioni's career. Lodewijk Muns is on the NMI staff as an archivist and researcher.

Marie Taglioni (1804-1884): A life on toe tip

• Opening a box
  
• The making of a dancer
  
• La Sylphide
• Sur la pointe
• A minuet and a cachucha
• Bric à brac
• Acknowledgement and references