#12296 Rafael De Penagos

The composition presents a woman seated on what appears to be a window ledge, her posture suggesting both relaxation and a degree of melancholy. She is depicted in profile, facing left, with her gaze directed beyond the frame. The artist has rendered her with stylized features characteristic of early twentieth-century fashion illustration; elongated neck, slender physique, and an elaborate hat that obscures much of her hair. Her attire consists of a low-cut dress, emphasizing the décolletage, and long gloves, indicative of the periods elegance.
The background is dominated by a saturated blue hue, which serves to isolate the figure and create a sense of depth. A glimpse of an interior space can be discerned through the window – a suggestion of domesticity or perhaps a staged setting. On a small table beside her are a few objects: a glass of champagne, a bouquet of red flowers, and a candlestick, contributing to an atmosphere of leisure and refinement.
The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing shades of blue, beige, brown, and touches of red. This limited range contributes to the works graphic quality and reinforces its function as promotional material. The text incorporated into the design – La Caza de la Mariposa, Wenceslao Fernandez Florez, and “La Novela de Hoy” – indicates that this is a cover for a novel, likely intended for popular consumption.
Subtly, theres an element of isolation conveyed by the woman’s posture and gaze. While surrounded by symbols of luxury and comfort, she appears detached, perhaps lost in thought or yearning for something beyond her immediate surroundings. The title The Hunt for the Butterfly hints at a narrative involving pursuit, fragility, and possibly unattainable desires – themes that resonate with the figures contemplative demeanor. The overall effect is one of sophisticated allure tinged with an underlying sense of introspection.