Boyar. Costume design for the opera "Boris Godunov" by Modest Mussorgsky 

Ivan Bilibin designed this costume for a Boyar in Modest Mussorgsky’s opera "Boris Godunov,” using watercolor and ink on paper. Bilibin’s materials are traditional, but his approach transcends mere illustration. Notice how the flat, bold colors and graphic lines create a powerful visual statement. The Boyar’s robe, meticulously patterned, speaks volumes about status and wealth. The fur trim, the staff, even the cut of the hat, all communicate power. Consider the labor involved, both in the depicted garment and the drawing itself. The patterns suggest elaborate weaving or embroidery, requiring countless hours of skilled handwork. Bilibin, in turn, uses his own artistic skills to translate this opulence onto paper. This design isn't just about aesthetics; it’s about the social context of 16th century Russia, and the hierarchies embedded in every thread. Ultimately, Bilibin’s design challenges the idea that costume design is somehow separate from "high art.” It's a reminder that materials, making, and context are key to understanding visual culture.