Theater of reason, theater of desire : the art of Alexandre Benois and Léon Bakst

Léon Bakst (1866-1924) was a painter, illustrator, stage and costume designer. He is universally acknowledged for representing a synthesis of creative energy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Bakst travelled widely throughout Europe and in 1890 joined the World of Art journal circle which numbered many artists among its members, the most famous being Benois and Diaghilev. This book illustrates the wealth of Bakst's contribution to the world of theatre and dance. His best known work includes sets for Stravinsky's Firebird, and Weber's Spectre de la Rose. Beginning his artistic career as a painter and illustrator for magazines, Léon Bakst is best known for his unique work as a scene and costume designer. During decisive decades of Russian history, Bakst designed colourful and exotic costumes for the famous Ballets Russes. This book offers a wide selection of the artist's most impressive works and, with its compact format, makes the perfect gift