Leonid Massine - Leon Bakst
Archival giclée
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Description
A graphite portrait of the dancer Leonid Massine by Leon Bakst, captured in 1917 during their collaboration with the Ballets Russes.
This portrait of the dancer and choreographer Leonid Massine captures the subject with a direct, observant gaze. Executed in 1917, the drawing reflects the close professional association between Massine and Leon Bakst during their time with the Ballets Russes. Bakst, known primarily for his theatrical costume and set designs, here employs a restrained graphite technique to focus on the facial features of the young dancer.
The composition is minimal, placing the subject against a neutral background. Bakst uses light, rhythmic strokes to define the hair and the contours of the face, while the eyes are rendered with greater density to draw the viewer in. The collar of the shirt is suggested through loose, fluid lines, maintaining the sketch-like quality of the work. This piece offers a glimpse into the personal rapport between the artist and his muse, stripped of the elaborate ornamentation often associated with Bakst's stage work.
Leonid Massine joined the Ballets Russes in 1914 and quickly became a central figure in the company, succeeding Vaslav Nijinsky as the principal male dancer. Bakst, who had been instrumental in the company's visual identity since its inception, produced several portraits of the dancers he worked with. This drawing is a study of character rather than a formal commission. It records the youthful appearance of Massine during a period of intense creative output for the company. The work remains a clear example of Bakst's ability to capture personality through simple draughtsmanship, demonstrating his skill beyond the medium of stage design. The portrait is signed and dated in the lower left corner, confirming its provenance within the artist's later period.
Return policy
Because every print is made to order, we don't offer change-of-mind returns, refunds or exchanges. If your order arrives faulty, damaged or incorrect, we'll replace it free of charge — just contact us within 48 hours of delivery. See our refunds page for full details.
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We ship worldwide, printing at the production hub nearest to your delivery address. Delivery times and costs vary by destination — you'll see the options available to you at checkout.
Manufacturing
Each print is produced to order using 12-colour giclée printing on FSC-certified archival paper. Designed in Britain and printed at your nearest production hub to reduce waste and speed up delivery.
Care and materials
Specific Features
Every Solis piece is made to order with archival, gallery-quality materials built to last.
- Museum-grade giclée printing for rich, fade-resistant colour
- Archival matte fine-art paper, FSC-certified
- Multiple sizes and framing options available
- Frames in black, natural wood, dark wood or white
- Framed prints arrive ready to hang
Care & Cleaning
To keep your artwork looking its best:
- Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight
- Never use liquid cleaners on the print or canvas surface
- Keep in a dry, room-temperature space
- Handle prints with clean, dry hands
Materials & Sizing
Museum-grade giclée on FSC-certified archival matte paper, with framed and canvas options.
- Paper sizes: A4, A3, A2, A1, A0 and B2 (50×70 cm)
- Canvas: XS (20×30 cm) to Large (60×90 cm)
- Frames: black, natural wood, dark wood or white
Leonid Massine - Leon Bakst
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