#29928 Ismael Smith

Here we observe a drawing depicting a figure in elaborate costume against a plain, light-colored background. The subject stands in a frontal pose, presenting a full view of their attire and accessories. A sense of stylized theatricality pervades the work; it appears to be a design for stage or performance.
The individual is draped in layers of grey fabric that create a flowing, almost ethereal effect. The garment consists of a fitted bodice with visible stitching, a skirt composed of tiered ruffles, and a large shawl-like drape that covers one shoulder and cascades down the front. Silver embellishments adorn the bodice, adding a touch of ornamentation to the otherwise muted palette.
A distinctive headpiece completes the ensemble. It is a helmet-like structure, decorated with stylized wings extending upwards from either side. The face itself is rendered with minimal detail, suggesting an emphasis on the costume rather than individual characterization. The figure holds a small, ornate purse in one hand, its surface patterned with floral motifs and accented by dangling tassels. Silver shoes complete the lower portion of the design.
The drawing’s subtexts suggest themes of transformation and fantasy. The wings evoke notions of flight or transcendence, while the elaborate costume implies a departure from everyday reality. The overall effect is one of otherworldly elegance and theatrical spectacle. The simplicity of the background directs attention entirely to the figure and their attire, reinforcing the sense that this is a carefully constructed persona rather than a portrait of an individual. The date 1914 inscribed at the bottom indicates a historical context marked by significant social and artistic change, potentially reflecting emerging trends in performance design or fashion.