le sultan vindicatif 1922 Leon Bakst

The drawing presents a figure in elaborate ceremonial attire against a stark white background. The individual is depicted from the waist up, positioned centrally and facing forward with a direct gaze. A dense beard dominates the lower portion of the face, contrasting sharply with the pale skin visible above it. The eyes are dark and intense, contributing to an overall impression of authority and perhaps severity.
The costume itself is the focal point. It consists primarily of deep blue fabric heavily embellished with intricate patterns in white and gold. These decorative elements appear as stylized foliage or abstract motifs, creating a sense of opulence and grandeur. A complex headdress, also predominantly blue and white, rises above the figure’s head, further emphasizing their elevated status. The sleeves are wide and flowing, hinting at movement and theatricality. Trousers, striped in shades of blue and white, peek out from beneath the robe, terminating in pointed footwear that echoes the shapes found within the costumes ornamentation.
The artist employs a limited color palette – primarily blues, whites, and touches of gold – which contributes to the image’s clarity and focus on form. The lines are precise and controlled, suggesting a meticulous approach to rendering detail. There is an intentional flatness to the composition; perspective is minimal, reinforcing the sense that this is a design for costume rather than a realistic portrait.
Subtly, theres a tension between the figure’s imposing presence and the somewhat stylized nature of the depiction. The direct gaze suggests power, but the lack of background and the flattened perspective create a distance, preventing any easy emotional connection with the subject. One might interpret this as an exploration of authority – its visual representation and its potential for both awe and detachment. The richness of the costume implies wealth and privilege, while the overall presentation hints at a theatrical context, suggesting that the figure is performing a role rather than simply existing.