costume for romeo and juliet 1920-1 Exter

The composition presents a stylized depiction of a figure in formal attire, seemingly engaged in movement or dance. The background is a warm, textured beige, providing contrast to the dominant color scheme. A significant portion of the visual field is occupied by vibrant red forms that suggest clothing – a cape or cloak and what appears to be a skirt or train. These shapes are not rendered realistically; instead, they are simplified into angular planes and sharp edges, characteristic of a Cubist approach.
The figure’s upper body is lighter in tone, with white and pale pink hues defining the shoulders and arms. The artist has abstracted the human form, reducing it to essential geometric components. Arms extend outward, one raised high as if gesturing or reaching, while the other appears to hold an object – perhaps a prop related to performance. A dark bow tie is positioned near the neck, adding a touch of formality and suggesting a theatrical context.
The overall effect is not one of naturalism but rather of conveying emotion and dynamism through fragmented forms. The use of red evokes passion, intensity, or even danger – themes frequently associated with dramatic narratives. The angularity contributes to a sense of tension and instability, hinting at the complexities inherent in the subject matter.
Subtly, there is an impression of confinement within the rectangular frame, which could be interpreted as symbolic of societal constraints or predetermined roles – a common theme explored in tragic romances. The limited palette and flattened perspective further emphasize this feeling of being trapped or observed. The work seems to focus less on individual identity and more on the archetypal nature of a character caught in a dramatic situation.