The design was created by Bakst in the later part of his career, while seriously ill, and was the last of his collaborations with Serge Diaghilev, his longtime partner in the Ballets Russes.

Sleeping Beauty, directed by the famous choreographer Petipa and the director of the Imperial Ballet, Vsevolojsky, was the finest classical ballet in the Ballets Russes repertoire, and premiered with Bakst's grandiose stage and costume designs, using his signature mix of bold colors and orientalist inspirations.

Purchased 22 years ago at a book fair. Believed to be from a collection of theatre designs and drawings by the great Russian artist put together shortly after his death in 1924 by his friends and admirers. Several deluxe editions with hand-colored pochoir plates were published in the mid to late nineteen twenties. The editions were small, having a limitation of around 300 copies. 

The pochoir technique: made by the artist's hand, using hand-cut stencils and stippled brush and sponge application, pochoir builds up layers of color and texture, giving the artist total control. The paint sits on the surface rather than soaks in as in the case of ink. All pochoirs are unique.

This piece and mat are in excellent condition with no defects to report. 

Buyer to pay $18 Priority Mail shipping within U.S. International shipments made at $65 via Priority Intl. 

All items may be returned for any reason within 30 days of receipt, with prior notification.