Lydia Kyasht

The subject, Lydia Kyasht, is portrayed in her prime as a leading ballerina. The photograph likely commemorates her success at the Empire Theatre and her association with prestigious ballet companies, including Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes. It highlights her contribution to ballet’s popularity in early 20th-century Britain.

Taken by Bassano Ltd., royal photographers, the image reflects the formal, high-quality portraiture typical of the era. The style is characteristic of early 20th-century photographic portraiture, emphasizing clarity and dignity, suited to capturing the elegance of a ballet dancer.

Photographed in 1913, this work coincides with Kyasht’s choreographic debut with ‘The Reaper’s Dream’ at the Empire Theatre. The image is part of a collection held by the National Portrait Gallery, with similar photographs featured in periodicals of the time.

The photograph is set against the backdrop of the Ballet Russe ‘boom’ in Britain, which Kyasht helped initiate. Her transition from dancing with the Imperial Ballet in St. Petersburg to becoming a central figure in London’s ballet scene reflects the global movement of artistic talent during this period.

This photograph serves as a testament to Kyasht’s enduring legacy in British ballet history. Along with her choreographic works and teaching, it contributes to the visual archive of early 20th-century dance, available for study at institutions like the National Portrait Gallery.