Zucchini Lilas Pastia. Sketch of scenery for opera Carmen by G. Bizet Alexander Golovin (1863-1930)

The composition presents a scene of convivial gathering set within a courtyard or patio environment. A large table dominates the foreground, laden with food and drink, suggesting a festive occasion. Several figures are seated around it, engaged in animated conversation and gestures that imply lively interaction. The artist has rendered them with loose brushstrokes, prioritizing an impression of movement and energy over precise detail.
Beyond the immediate group, the courtyard extends into deeper space, defined by architectural elements – a building facade with windows and a balcony – and dense foliage framing the view. The structure appears somewhat dilapidated, hinting at a history or a sense of faded grandeur. The sky above is rendered in broad strokes of yellow and orange, suggesting either sunset or artificial lighting, contributing to the overall atmosphere of warmth and intimacy.
A figure in white stands slightly apart from the main group, seemingly caught mid-motion – perhaps dancing or gesturing dramatically. This individual’s isolation draws attention and introduces a potential narrative element; their posture suggests an emotional intensity that contrasts with the relaxed demeanor of those at the table.
The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – greens, browns, and ochres – punctuated by touches of white and yellow. The application of paint appears rapid and expressive, creating a textured surface that enhances the sense of immediacy. There’s an intentional lack of crispness in the outlines; forms bleed into one another, contributing to a dreamlike quality.
Given its context as a sketch for an operatic production, it is likely intended to capture a specific moment or atmosphere within the narrative. The scene conveys a feeling of relaxed enjoyment and perhaps underlying tension – a prelude to dramatic events. The solitary figure in white could represent a character poised on the brink of significant action, while the overall setting evokes a sense of place that is both alluring and potentially dangerous.