#12309 Rafael De Penagos

The composition presents a female figure positioned before a circular mirror, dominating the central visual space. The woman is depicted from behind, her body largely unclothed, save for a loosely draped shawl that partially conceals her lower torso and legs. She wears what appear to be stockings and jewelry around her neck and wrists. Her hair is styled in a short bob, characteristic of the era suggested by the work’s aesthetic.
The mirrors reflection reveals an identical figure, creating a sense of doubling or mirroring. The reflective surface isnt rendered with perfect clarity; instead, it appears fractured and distorted, suggesting instability or a fragmented perception of self. This distortion extends to the background visible within the mirror, which is blurred and indistinct, further emphasizing the focus on the figures themselves.
Below the central figure, a small, stylized depiction of a hat and what seems to be a handbag rest on a blue surface. These objects appear almost detached from the main scene, contributing to an overall feeling of detachment or alienation. The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing muted tones of beige, purple, and blue, which lends a melancholic atmosphere to the work.
Subtextually, the painting seems to explore themes of identity, vanity, and perhaps the performative nature of femininity. The mirrored image could represent an idealized self-image or a commentary on societal expectations placed upon women during this period. The fragmented reflection might symbolize a fractured sense of self, potentially hinting at anxieties surrounding appearance and authenticity. The discarded accessories suggest a moment of transition or vulnerability, as if the woman is shedding layers of artifice. Overall, the work evokes a mood of introspection and quiet contemplation, inviting viewers to consider the complexities of female identity within a specific historical context.