The artwork, titled “Poster for the 1911 Ballet Russe season showing Nijinsky in costume for ‘Le Spectre de la Rose’,” is a piece by Jean Cocteau created in 1911. This poster belongs to the Expressionism art movement and serves as a genre of promotional poster art.
The artwork prominently features a dancer, Nijinsky, dressed in an elaborate costume adorned with floral motifs, reflective of the character ‘Le Spectre de la Rose’. The dancer is depicted in a graceful, mid-performance pose against a simple, muted background that draws attention to the elaborate and colorful costume. The simplicity of the background contrasts with the dancer’s dynamic posture and intricate attire, which is detailed in flowing lines and vivid colors. The top of the poster bears the text “THÉÂTRE DE MONTE-CARLO” and announces a soirée on April 19, 1911, while the bottom prominently features the text “BALLET RUSSE”, all contributing to the promotional purpose of the artwork for the Ballet Russe season. Cocteau’s signature is visible, marking his creation, and the piece encapsulates the vibrancy and movement characteristic of Expressionist art.