Old King Cole

A Balancing Act – Cole’s on the Ball

This King Cole is at least active as he enjoys his pipe and bowl. The star-studded ball on which he dances is centered in the image, and the title character dominates by virtue of his size and his position above the others. The fiddlers appear to be court jesters and are paying close attention to the king they have come to entertain. Even the mice are enjoying a dance. The king’s nose and cheeks are red. Perhaps he is inebriated from some liquid spirits in that bowl, or he may just be showing signs of his strenuous celebration.