In After the Dance, Philippe Le Roux explores the complex legacy of his father, Le Roux Smith Le Roux, a talented mural painter and art administrator he never knew. Prompted by his mother, Philippe embarks on a journey to investigate his father's tumultuous life. He uncovers his father's significant role as a whistleblower at the Tate Gallery, particularly regarding the controversial price paid for Degas's Dancer. This investigation leads Philippe to confront the ongoing debate surrounding the Tate Affair, especially the narrative craft ed by Sir John Rothenstein. Despite art historians recognizing Rothenstein as an unreliable narrator, many still endorse his version of events. This book aims to clarify the true story of the Tate Affair and illuminate why the Establishment chose to support Rothenstein over his challenger.
