#12306 Rafael De Penagos

The composition presents a woman in a stylized, Art Deco fashion. She is positioned centrally against a stark black background, which immediately draws attention to her figure and the surrounding details. Above her, in elegant script, appears the phrase La Esfera, suggesting a connection to a sphere of influence or perhaps a publication title.
The woman’s posture conveys an air of languid sophistication. She holds a large, ornate hand mirror, reflecting a portion of her face and creating a sense of self-absorption or introspection. Her gaze is directed slightly downward, contributing to the overall impression of detached elegance. The close cropping emphasizes her upper body, focusing on her carefully styled bob haircut, adorned with what appears to be a decorative band, and a heavy strand of pearls that drapes across her chest. A cigarette is held delicately between her fingers, further reinforcing an image of refined leisure.
Below the woman’s figure, a table surface is visible, populated with objects suggestive of gambling or financial transactions. Stacks of coins are arranged on a small platform, alongside what appears to be playing cards and other unidentified items. A single red rose rests near the coins, introducing a note of romanticism or perhaps a subtle commentary on risk and reward.
The color palette is restrained: primarily beige, brown, black, and touches of red. This limited range contributes to the images graphic quality and reinforces its association with advertising or promotional material. The artist’s signature appears in the lower left corner, along with the date 1927, providing a temporal anchor for the work.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of wealth, leisure, and feminine allure within a specific historical context. The womans detached demeanor and luxurious surroundings suggest an environment of privilege and indulgence. The presence of gambling paraphernalia hints at potential danger or uncertainty lurking beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic scene. Overall, the work evokes a sense of glamour and intrigue characteristic of the interwar period.