scheherazade la sultane bleue 1910 Leon Bakst

The composition presents a solitary female figure viewed from behind, engaged in what appears to be musical performance. She is positioned on a raised platform or mound, sharply delineated against a hazy, indistinct background. The color palette is dominated by vibrant reds and blues, creating a striking contrast that draws the eye immediately to the central subject.
The woman’s attire is elaborate: a fitted bodice of turquoise blue, paired with flowing red trousers gathered at the ankles. A matching turban, also in blue, frames her head, its shape suggesting an exotic origin or cultural affiliation. Her arms are bare, adorned with what appear to be decorative markings – perhaps tattoos or intricate henna patterns – that contribute to the sense of otherness and mystery surrounding her. She holds a tambourine, actively playing it; this action suggests a narrative unfolding through music.
The background is rendered in soft, muted tones of beige and cream, creating an atmospheric depth that obscures any specific location. A ghostly, indistinct form appears within this backdrop – possibly a horse or other animal – which adds to the dreamlike quality of the scene. The figure’s posture conveys introspection; her head is bowed, suggesting contemplation or perhaps melancholy.
The work evokes themes of storytelling and performance, hinting at a narrative suspended in time. The exoticism inherent in the womans dress and appearance suggests an engagement with Orientalist tropes – a fascination with cultures perceived as distant and alluring. However, the solitary nature of the figure and her downcast gaze introduce a layer of complexity; she is not presented as a celebratory icon but rather as someone caught within a moment of private reflection. The indistinct background and ethereal quality contribute to a sense of timelessness, suggesting that the narrative being conveyed transcends specific historical context.