The artwork titled “Costume for the Englishman, from La Boutique Fantastique” was created by the renowned artist Leon Bakst in 1917. This piece, executed in lithography, is an exemplary representation of the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and falls within the genre of design. Currently, it is housed in a private collection.
The artwork illustrates a vibrant and dynamic scene. It depicts a character, presumably the Englishman, dressed in an elegant, black overcoat with gold buttons, carrying a red walking stick and donning a matching hat. Around his shoulders drapes a checkered yellow and orange scarf. His apparel is further complemented by a pair of striped trousers and gloves, showcasing meticulous attention to detail. In the background is a ballerina-like figure adorned in a red and orange costume with a black hat, invoking a sense of whimsicality and theatricality in line with Bakst’s celebrated design style for stage costumes. The interplay of bright colors and intricate patterns reflects the quintessential elements of the Art Nouveau movement, characterized by decorative art and intricate, flowing lines.
