#24933 Jorge Apperley

The composition presents a seated figure, rendered in a style suggestive of early twentieth-century portraiture. The subject is a woman, positioned in profile with her gaze directed towards the upper right corner of the canvas. Her posture conveys a sense of poised elegance; she sits on what appears to be a cushioned surface, partially obscured by the folds of her attire.
The color palette is dominated by deep blues and reds, creating a dramatic contrast that draws attention to the figure. The background consists of a dark blue curtain, which serves to isolate the subject and intensify the focus on her elaborate costume. This backdrop’s simplicity emphasizes the richness and complexity of the womans garments.
The artist has paid considerable attention to detail in depicting the textiles. A richly embroidered shawl, adorned with floral motifs in vibrant reds and pinks against a black background, drapes over her shoulders. The fringe along the edges of the shawl adds texture and movement to the composition. She holds a fan, also decorated with red and patterned designs, which she manipulates with a delicate gesture. Her dress, visible at the lower portion of the image, echoes the color scheme with its deep red hue.
The woman’s hair is styled in a fashionable manner for the period, pulled back from her face and adorned with what appears to be a decorative comb or clip. The lighting highlights her features – a strong jawline, arched eyebrows, and full lips – contributing to an overall impression of sophistication and allure.
Subtly, theres a sense of theatricality conveyed through the costume and pose. It suggests a performance, perhaps a dance or musical presentation. The woman’s gaze, directed slightly away from the viewer, implies introspection or anticipation, hinting at a narrative beyond what is immediately visible. The overall effect is one of carefully constructed beauty and restrained emotion, characteristic of representations of idealized femininity prevalent in the early 20th century.