#12294 Rafael De Penagos

The composition presents three women arranged in a vertical format against a vibrant green background. Each figure is depicted from the chest upwards, their faces rendered with stylized features and dark eye makeup that emphasizes a theatrical quality. They wear elaborate headwear – large, wide-brimmed hats adorned with what appears to be red fabric or feathers – that contributes to an overall sense of spectacle and extravagance. Their attire consists of ornate dresses featuring intricate floral patterns in shades of red and white against a darker base. The poses are somewhat stiff and formal, suggesting a staged performance rather than candid portraits.
The artist employed a limited color palette dominated by green, red, and black, which enhances the visual impact and creates a sense of drama. Lines are bold and defined, contributing to the graphic nature of the work. A decorative border frames the central figures, further emphasizing their prominence.
Below the figures, text is arranged in a layered fashion. The words Círculo de Bellas Artes appear prominently, followed by “Baile de Máscaras” and “Palacio del Hielo,” with the year MCMXVII (1917) situated at the bottom right corner within an emblem featuring a crest or shield. This textual information strongly suggests that this is a promotional poster for a masked ball held in a specific venue, likely associated with a circle of fine arts.
Subtly, the work conveys themes of elegance, performance, and perhaps even a touch of mystery due to the masked ball context. The stylized depiction of the women hints at an idealized representation of beauty and sophistication, characteristic of early twentieth-century aesthetics. The overall effect is one of theatricality and refined entertainment, indicative of a cultural moment emphasizing spectacle and artistic expression.