#12325 Rafael De Penagos

The composition presents a stylized female figure set against a predominantly yellow background, framed by dark vertical lines that create a sense of enclosure and formality. The woman is depicted in profile, her gaze directed forward with a detached, almost enigmatic expression. She wears an elaborate hat adorned with what appears to be feathers or decorative elements, and a high-necked garment accented with blue geometric patterns. Her attire suggests a fashionable, perhaps theatrical persona.
The artist employed a flattened perspective, minimizing depth and emphasizing the two-dimensionality of the work. The figure’s elongated form contributes to this effect, lending her an almost mannequin-like quality. A series of objects are arranged on a table to the right: a vase containing white flowers, candles in holders, and bottles – likely perfume or other cosmetic products. These items suggest themes of beauty, refinement, and perhaps luxury.
To the left, a sculpted form resembling a stylized bird or mythical creature is visible, adding an element of fantasy and symbolic richness. The text at the bottom, rendered in elegant script, appears to be part of an advertisement or promotional material. Its presence reinforces the work’s function as a visual communication piece rather than solely a fine art object.
The color palette is restricted primarily to yellow, black, and blue, with touches of white and pink. The contrast between the warm yellow background and the dark figure creates a dramatic effect, drawing attention to her form. The limited range of colors contributes to the overall sense of stylized elegance and controlled aesthetic.
Subtly, theres an interplay between confinement and allure. While the vertical lines suggest restriction, the woman’s posture and attire convey a certain confidence and sophistication. This tension might allude to societal expectations placed upon women during the period in which this work was created – a balance of decorum and desire. The objects on the table further reinforce these themes, hinting at the curated nature of beauty and the pursuit of an idealized image.