Marquise book. Illustration8 Konstantin Andreevich Somov (1869-1939)

The drawing presents a crowded scene populated by figures in elaborate costumes and masks. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing the height and density of the gathering. A central pair dominates the foreground: a woman in a voluminous, pale pink gown with intricate lace detailing and a man in a crisp white jacket and breeches. Both are masked, obscuring their faces and contributing to an atmosphere of anonymity and intrigue. The woman’s dress is cinched at the waist with a turquoise sash, drawing attention to her form while maintaining a sense of formality.
Behind this central pair, numerous other figures press forward, each adorned in similarly extravagant attire. A riot of colors – pinks, blues, yellows, and greens – is evident in their garments, creating a visually stimulating effect. The women’s hairstyles are particularly noteworthy; they are piled high with feathers, ribbons, and what appear to be artificial flowers, suggesting an emphasis on display and ornamentation.
The artist employed a technique that blends detailed rendering of the costumes with a more generalized depiction of the faces visible through the masks. This creates a sense of both individuality within the crowd and a collective anonymity. The use of hatching and cross-hatching throughout the drawing contributes to its texture, lending depth and dimension to the figures’ clothing and creating an overall impression of richness and opulence.
Subtly, the scene conveys themes of social hierarchy, disguise, and perhaps even transgression. The masks suggest hidden identities and a loosening of societal constraints – a space where individuals might behave differently than they would in public. The crowded nature of the gathering implies a desire for connection and belonging, yet the anonymity afforded by the masks also hints at potential deception or intrigue. The overall effect is one of controlled chaos, suggesting a world governed by elaborate rituals and unspoken rules.