Chernomor's Gardens. Sketches of scenery for Mikhail Glinka's Ruslan and Ludmilla 1913

"Chernomor's Gardens" is a 1913 sketch by Ivan Bilibin, a renowned Russian artist known for his illustrations and stage designs. This artwork depicts a fantastical garden setting with lush greenery and a series of arches framing a distant waterfall, likely a scene from the opera "Ruslan and Ludmilla" by Mikhail Glinka. Bilibin’s stylized designs, characterized by vibrant colors and intricate details, reflect the aesthetics of the Russian Art Nouveau movement. His works often drew inspiration from Russian folklore and mythology, capturing the essence of Slavic traditions. This sketch serves as a testament to Bilibin’s talent in creating captivating visuals for theatrical productions.