bakst scheherazade negre argent 1910 Leon Bakst

Here we observe a full-length depiction of a figure in elaborate costume, rendered with a striking contrast between dark and vibrant hues. The individual is positioned centrally within the frame, slightly angled towards the viewer, suggesting both engagement and a degree of theatrical presentation. Their skin tone is deeply pigmented, contrasting sharply with the opulent ornamentation that adorns them.
The costume itself appears to be inspired by Eastern aesthetics, though it’s presented in a highly stylized and exoticized manner. A complex headdress, incorporating gold and patterned fabric, sits atop the head, drawing attention upwards. The upper body is draped in what seems to be a heavily embellished vest or bodice, featuring intricate beadwork and delicate floral motifs. Below this, a flowing skirt of deep red cascades down, its surface decorated with rows of small, white beads that create a shimmering effect as they catch the light. Elaborate bracelets adorn both wrists, echoing the decorative elements found elsewhere in the costume. The figure’s feet are clad in slippers or sandals, also embellished with gold detailing.
The artists use of color is significant. The dominance of black and red creates an immediate visual impact, evoking a sense of drama and sensuality. The gold accents throughout the costume further amplify this effect, suggesting wealth, power, and exoticism. The background is rendered in muted tones, allowing the figure to remain the focal point.
Subtexts within the work revolve around themes of cultural appropriation and Orientalist fantasy. The depiction likely draws upon a fascination with the Orient prevalent during the early 20th century, presenting a romanticized and often inaccurate portrayal of Eastern cultures. The figure’s dark skin tone, combined with the opulent costume, could be interpreted as an attempt to create an image of alluring mystery and otherness. The posture suggests movement and performance, hinting at a theatrical context – perhaps a ballet or stage production – where such exoticized representations were common. Ultimately, the work reflects the complex interplay between artistic expression, cultural perception, and colonial attitudes that characterized the period in which it was created.