Tamara Karsavina as Columbine in 'Le Carnaval' by Mikhail Fokine
1918
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1918
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This painting shows a woman sitting in a chair, wearing a loose, light-colored dress with puffy sleeves. Her dark hair is pulled back, and she has a small red flower tucked behind one ear. The background is dark and blurry, so the focus stays on her face and the fabric of her dress. The brushstrokes are thick and visible, giving the dress texture that almost looks like lace. The artist didn’t smooth everything out—it’s rough in spots, especially on the fabric. If you like this style, check out impasto next.