The Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian
Original Language TitleLe Martyre de St. Sébastien
Artist
Léon Bakst
(Russian, 1866 - 1924)
Date1911
MediumColor-lithographed poster
DimensionsImage: 52 3/4 × 81 inches (133.99 × 205.74 cm)
Credit LinePurchase: acquired through the generosity of the Leawood Women's Club, Richard Shields, and Felice Stampfle in memory of her uncle Arthur J. Suiter
Object numberF85-9 B
Signed(stone, l.r.c.):"Bakst"
On View
Not on viewCollections
DescriptionThree full-length figures in rich medieval-cloaked costumes. Diocletian, first figure on left. The words "Saint Sebastien" in white block letters on black band at bottom of image.Gallery LabelThe six figures in this two-part poster represent members of the supporting cast in Gabriele d'Annunzio's sacred drama, The Martyrdom of St. Sebastian. With choreography by Michel Fokine, music by Claude Debussy and costumes by Bakst, the play opened at the Théâtre Châtelet in Paris in 1911. Bakst's richly colored and boldly patterned costumes were inspired by the Byzantine mosaics and sculpture he studied at the Louvre Museum and saw in Italy and Turkey. He designed a total of 500 costumes for this grand theatrical spectacle.
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