Press releases

Works of Belarusian artist Leon Bakst on display at Sotheby’s pre-auction exhibition

MINSK, 22 February (BelTA) - Three works of the famous Belarusian artist Leon Bakst were put on display at the pre-auction exhibition in Paris on 21 February. The exhibition precedes Sotheby's auction to be held in June, BelTA learnt from the Belarusian Embassy in France.

According to Ms Joanna Vickery, Senior Director, Head of Russian Department at Sotheby's, the works of our fellow countryman from Grodno Leon Bakst were kept in a private collection in France.

These are three sketches of theatrical costumes. This is what Ms Joanna Vickery said about the works: Bakst liked gold and silver colors. He used them extensively in his works. These are some of the iconic elements that highlight the charm of the East that the artist loved. The artist brilliantly used these colors in the works that were exhibited. These sketches were made in the 1920s, when the artist was already popular.
 
During the week art lovers and potential buyers will be able to get acquainted with the exhibited works in Paris and then the exhibition will travel to London. In June, the works of Russian artists, among which are the works of Belarus-born Leon Bakst, will be sold at auction. The initial value of one work by Leon Bakst ranges from €10,000 to €60,000.

During the exhibition Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belarus to France Pavel Latushko met with Ms Joanna Vickery. Sotheby’s agreed to let the embassy know whenever it receives Belarusian paintings, so that Belarusian cultural institutions and companies will be able to buy them.

Leon Bakst (1866-1924) is one of the elite and most expensive world stage artists. Stage designer, book illustrator, one of the most prominent personalities of the association “The World of Art” and theatrical projects of Sergei Diaghilev. Leon Bakst was born in Grodno. In 1893-1897 he lived in Paris, often returning to St. Petersburg. In 1907, the artist lived mostly in Paris and worked on theatrical scenery, which he really revolutionized.

print version

make home page

add to bookmarks