In our country we often see an old woman bedizened like a Figurante, imagining that she shall gain the graces of youth by borrowing its garments.
"Manners and Social Usages"
Mrs. John M. E. W. Sherwood
If so, you shall have in return the earliest intelligence of every new soprano, and the most elaborate criticisms on every budding Figurante of our court.
"The Disowned, Complete"
Edward Bulwer-Lytton
Although of very low origin, and by no means gifted with a handsome person, this lady, after having, rather late in life, obtained an introduction on the opera-stage as a common Figurante, contrived to insinuate herself into the good graces of some rich protectors.
"Paris As It Was and As It Is"
Francis W. Blagdon