Costume design for Les Burgraves by Victor Hugo (1802-85) Louis Boulanger (1806-1867)

The drawing presents a figure in what appears to be a theatrical costume design. The subject is rendered in monochrome, utilizing washes and dry brush techniques to create tonal variation and suggest texture. A sense of dramatic lighting contributes to the overall unsettling atmosphere; the face is partially obscured by shadow, emphasizing its gauntness and contributing to an impression of spectral presence.
The figure’s posture conveys a mixture of weariness and restrained movement. One arm extends forward, fingers elongated and skeletal in appearance, as if reaching or gesturing towards something beyond the frame. The other arm hangs limply at the side, draped with heavy fabric that pools around the ankles. This fabric, along with a substantial chain secured to the figure’s legs, suggests confinement or servitude – a visual metaphor for burden or restriction.
The costume itself is layered and voluminous. A hooded cowl obscures much of the face, while a flowing robe drapes the body. The design prioritizes concealment over ornamentation; there are no visible embellishments or decorative elements. This simplicity reinforces the figure’s anonymity and contributes to its otherworldly quality.
Subtleties in the rendering suggest an intentional exploration of themes related to mortality and suffering. The skeletal hand, the shadowed face, and the restrictive chains all point towards a narrative of loss, regret, or perhaps even punishment. The overall effect is one of melancholy and foreboding, hinting at a character burdened by past actions or destined for a tragic fate. The design’s purpose as costume suggests that this figure is intended to evoke strong emotional responses from an audience – fear, pity, or a combination thereof.