#12149 Raimundo de Madrazo y Garreta (1841-1920)

The composition presents a woman in a moment of leisure, positioned within an interior space characterized by opulence and a sense of cultivated refinement. She is seated on a chaise lounge upholstered in a plush pink fabric, her posture suggesting both relaxation and poised elegance. Her attire – a pale pink dress with elaborate white detailing, complemented by a matching hat adorned with feathers and a fur stole – indicates membership within an affluent social stratum. The woman holds a black fan delicately in one hand, while the other rests on her thigh, further emphasizing a studied nonchalance.
The background is deliberately blurred, creating depth and drawing attention to the central figure. A large potted palm looms behind her, its fronds partially obscuring what appears to be an ornate screen or partition. The lighting is soft and diffused, highlighting the textures of the fabrics and the woman’s skin while casting subtle shadows that contribute to a sense of intimacy.
The artists attention to detail – the sheen on the satin shoes, the intricate pattern of the fan, the delicate rendering of the feathers – suggests an interest in capturing not only physical appearance but also the nuances of personality and social standing. The overall impression is one of carefully constructed artifice; a portrayal of feminine grace within a world defined by luxury and leisure.
Subtly, theres a sense of melancholy or introspection conveyed through her gaze, which appears directed beyond the viewer’s perspective. This quietness contrasts with the ostentatious display of wealth and fashion, hinting at complexities beneath the surface of societal expectations. The arrangement of objects – the chaise lounge, the palm tree, the fan – creates a stage-like setting, suggesting that this is a carefully orchestrated presentation rather than an unscripted moment.