#22345 Leon Bakst

Here we observe a drawing depicting a female figure in what appears to be a theatrical costume design. The woman stands facing forward, her posture suggesting both poise and a degree of formality. Her hair is rendered with flowing lines, cascading down her shoulders and partially obscuring the upper portion of the garment she wears. A simple headband adorns her forehead.
The costume itself presents an intriguing blend of styles. It consists of a sleeveless tunic or dress, decorated with stylized floral motifs in pale blue and gold against a deep navy background. The pattern is repeated along the hemline and around the neckline, creating a sense of rhythmic repetition. Beneath the tunic, a lighter fabric appears to peek through, suggesting layers within the design. The trousers are similarly patterned, echoing the decorative elements of the upper garment. She wears simple sandals on her feet.
A handwritten inscription in the upper right corner provides context: Esclaire Théacmi / 1er role / Miss Fogliare. This suggests that the drawing is a costume sketch for a theatrical production, specifically for a character named Esclaire Théacmi, who holds the first role and is played by someone identified as Miss Fogliare. The script’s placement indicates its importance to understanding the designs purpose.
The overall aesthetic leans towards an idealized representation of femininity, with a touch of exoticism suggested by the unusual costume design. The limited color palette – primarily navy, gold, pale blue, and white – contributes to a sense of elegance and refinement. The drawing’s simplicity in execution, coupled with the detailed rendering of the costumes pattern, implies an emphasis on the visual impact of the garment itself rather than a realistic portrayal of the actress. The design seems intended to evoke a sense of timelessness or perhaps a connection to ancient cultures, as indicated by the stylized motifs and flowing lines reminiscent of classical drapery. The date 1928 in the lower right corner establishes the works historical context within the early 20th century.