At the Baroness Strahl. Sketch of the scenery for the drama by M.Yu. Lermontov Masquerade Alexander Golovin (1863-1930)

The drawing presents a lavish interior space, presumably intended as a stage setting for a dramatic performance. The scene is dominated by a sense of opulent display and theatricality. Here we see a large room, likely a ballroom or salon, characterized by an abundance of decorative elements.
A complex arrangement of draperies fills the central portion of the composition. These are not merely functional; they serve as a significant visual barrier, obscuring any view beyond the windows and contributing to a feeling of enclosure and artificiality. The curtains are layered with varying textures and patterns, suggesting richness and extravagance. The color palette is warm – dominated by reds, yellows, and golds – which reinforces the impression of luxury and indulgence.
Furniture pieces are strategically placed throughout the room. A grand piano stands prominently on the left side, hinting at musical entertainment or perhaps a moment of private reflection within this public space. On the right, an ornate cabinet displays porcelain objects, further emphasizing the wealth and refinement associated with the setting. The chairs positioned in front of the windows appear formal and somewhat stiff, suggesting a prescribed social order.
Above, the ceiling is adorned with intricate ornamentation – garlands, medallions, and elaborate molding. A central chandelier provides illumination, but its light seems diffused and somewhat muted, creating an atmosphere that is less vibrant than it might initially appear. The decorative motifs on the ceiling are reminiscent of classical or baroque styles, reinforcing a sense of tradition and established social hierarchy.
The floor covering, visible as a patterned rug, adds another layer of visual complexity to the scene. Its design seems deliberately intricate, contributing to the overall impression of meticulous detail and controlled aesthetic.
Subtly, the drawing conveys a feeling of artificiality and constraint. The abundance of decoration, while visually impressive, also creates a sense of claustrophobia. The obscured view beyond the windows suggests a disconnection from the outside world, implying that this space is a carefully constructed illusion – a stage for social performance rather than a genuine representation of reality. The formality of the furniture arrangement and the muted lighting contribute to an atmosphere of controlled emotion and suppressed expression, hinting at underlying tensions or secrets within this seemingly idyllic setting. The drawing’s purpose as a sketch for a dramatic production underscores its function not merely as a depiction of a room, but as a symbolic representation of the social dynamics and psychological complexities that will unfold within it.