#12278 Rafael De Penagos

The composition presents a stylized depiction of a woman engaged in a domestic ritual. Here we observe her seated at a vanity table, holding a small mirror and applying lipstick with meticulous care. The figure is rendered in a simplified, almost schematic manner, characteristic of early twentieth-century graphic design. A limited palette of blue, pink, and white dominates the visual field, contributing to an overall sense of elegance and modernity.
The woman’s attire – a tailored suit jacket, fur collar, and distinctive cap – suggests a fashionable urbanite, likely belonging to a middle or upper class. The angularity of her features and the precise lines defining her form convey a certain aloofness and sophistication. She appears self-absorbed, focused entirely on her appearance.
Several objects are strategically placed around her. A cosmetic case sits open beside her, revealing its contents. A perfume bottle stands nearby, further emphasizing themes of beauty and refinement. The text Mi Mujer (My Woman) is prominently displayed beneath the figure, hinting at a narrative centered on female identity and perhaps marital dynamics.
The inclusion of “La Novela de Hoy” (The Novel of Today) and the price indication suggests this image served as an advertisement or cover illustration for a serialized novel. The text por Wenceslao Fernandez Florez identifies the author, adding another layer to the context.
Subtly, the work explores notions of femininity within a rapidly changing social landscape. The woman’s preoccupation with her appearance can be interpreted as both an affirmation of personal style and a reflection of societal pressures placed upon women during this era. The stylized aesthetic and limited color scheme contribute to a sense of idealized beauty and aspirational lifestyle, characteristic of the periods popular culture.