Sketch of costumes for "Tale of Tsar Saltan" 1919

This is a costume sketch by Nicholas Roerich for "Tale of Tsar Saltan," likely made with pencil and ink. The real artistry here lies not just in the design, but in the implied labor of translating these sketches into actual costumes. Imagine the seamstresses, tailors, and embroiderers who would have brought Roerich's vision to life. The choice of fabrics, the precision of the stitching, the weight and drape of the materials—all these elements would contribute to the final stage presence of the characters. Roerich’s design, rendered in monochrome on paper, only hints at the potential opulence. But the true transformation would occur in the workshops, through the skilled hands dedicated to realizing his artistic vision. This collaborative process, often unseen, is just as vital to the performance as the costumes themselves. Considering the collective effort behind such creations reminds us to look beyond the surface, and appreciate the work involved in every aspect of artistic production.