The Art of Leon Bakst: A Joy for the Eye

The beauty of the Ballets Russes when it premiered its Russian ballets in Paris in the early twentieth century springs from the costumes that Leon Bakst designed for it. Bakst’s gorgeous color combinations were a leading feature in the appearance of Diaghilev’s company. Bakst’s work became the sensation of art galleries and a dominant influence in the fashion world. He was the most distinguished artist in line and color that the theater had at the time. “Color should afford a joy for the eye.“ -- Bakst