#12400 Rafael De Penagos

The artwork presents a stylized female figure in profile, positioned against a backdrop dominated by warm orange and red hues. The woman is depicted seated, her posture suggesting a moment of quiet contemplation or engagement with something held within her hands. She wears a dark green dress complemented by a lighter-colored hat, the simplicity of her attire contributing to the overall streamlined aesthetic. Her hair cascades down her back in loose waves, rendered with fluid lines that echo the organic forms present throughout the composition.
The background is characterized by overlapping circular shapes, seemingly cut from paper or fabric, creating a sense of depth and layered complexity. These elements are not realistically depicted but rather serve as decorative motifs, contributing to the painting’s graphic quality. The color palette is restricted primarily to orange, red, green, and cream, further emphasizing the design-oriented nature of the work.
The text NUEVO MUNDO appears prominently at the bottom, suggesting a theme of newness or progress. The inclusion of “40 Centimos” in the upper corner indicates that this was likely intended as promotional material – a poster or advertisement.
Subtleties within the image suggest a narrative beyond mere surface appeal. The woman’s focused gaze and the object she holds imply an intellectual pursuit, perhaps reading or studying. This aligns with the NUEVO MUNDO inscription, hinting at the dissemination of knowledge or ideas as a catalyst for societal advancement. The stylized nature of the figure and background suggests a deliberate distancing from realism, prioritizing symbolic representation over literal depiction. The overall effect is one of optimism and forward-looking aspiration, characteristic of promotional materials intended to inspire confidence in a new era.