romeo and juliet, costume for first mask at ball 1921 Exter

Here we observe a figure rendered in a stylized and abstracted manner, seemingly designed as a costume concept for a theatrical production. The composition is dominated by swirling forms executed primarily in shades of blue, with accents of gold and black. The subject appears to be male, though the features are obscured by an elaborate headpiece that extends sharply upwards, creating a dramatic silhouette against the stark white background.
The artist has prioritized movement and dynamism over realistic representation. The drapery of the costume is not depicted as falling naturally; instead, it’s presented as a series of overlapping curves and planes, suggesting a sense of controlled chaos or theatrical flourish. This swirling effect contributes to an impression of energy and perhaps even concealment – fitting for a masked ball setting.
The figure stands upon a small, roughly rendered platform in brown tones, which grounds the composition while also emphasizing the verticality of the costume’s design. The limited color palette reinforces the sense of theatrical artifice; the blues evoke a feeling of formality or melancholy, while the gold hints at opulence and perhaps a touch of decadence.
Subtly, theres an element of tension present in the composition. The sharp angles of the headpiece contrast with the flowing lines of the costume, creating a visual discordance that might suggest internal conflict or a hidden agenda. Given the context of a masked ball – a setting rife with deception and intrigue – the costume’s design seems to embody these themes. It is not merely an outfit but a symbolic representation of disguise and concealed identity. The overall effect is one of heightened drama, hinting at a narrative unfolding beneath a veneer of elegance.