#12349 Rafael De Penagos

The drawing presents a woman in a moment of self-regard, positioned within a stylized interior setting. She stands before a mirror, holding it at arms length and examining her reflection with a slightly tilted head. Her posture is upright, conveying an air of confidence and poise. The dress she wears is a dark, flowing garment, characteristic of the early 20th century fashion, revealing the shoulders and upper chest. She completes the ensemble with high-heeled shoes and stockings, further emphasizing her fashionable appearance.
The artist has employed a limited color palette dominated by pinks, reds, blacks, and creams, contributing to a sense of elegance and refinement. The background is simplified, focusing attention on the figure and the decorative elements surrounding her. A small framed picture hangs on the wall behind her, adding depth to the composition. An ornate lamp with tassels casts a warm glow, illuminating parts of the scene and creating subtle shadows that define form. A patterned trunk or chest sits nearby, suggesting a space for personal belongings and hinting at travel or leisure.
The drawing’s subtexts revolve around themes of vanity, femininity, and the burgeoning consumer culture of the era. The womans preoccupation with her appearance suggests an engagement with societal expectations regarding beauty and presentation. Her attire and surroundings indicate a certain level of affluence and access to fashionable goods. The overall impression is one of carefully constructed elegance, hinting at a lifestyle centered on appearances and social standing. The artist’s use of line and color contributes to the drawings decorative quality, aligning it with the aesthetic sensibilities of its time.