#12375 Rafael De Penagos

The composition presents a stylized figure against a vibrant red background, seemingly intended as promotional material for a masked ball. The central subject is a female dancer or performer, depicted in a simplified, almost schematic manner characteristic of graphic design prevalent during the interwar period. Her pose suggests movement and celebration; one arm extends upward holding what appears to be a champagne flute, while the other is bent at the elbow, hinting at a dynamic turn or gesture.
The figure’s attire is equally stylized. A conical hat with white trim sits atop her head, partially obscuring her face which is masked with dark eye makeup and accentuated lips. The costume itself appears minimal, revealing a significant portion of her torso; this boldness in depicting the female form aligns with trends in popular culture during that era, where representations of women were often provocative yet carefully controlled within specific social contexts. A short, tiered skirt completes the ensemble, emphasizing the legs which are rendered with elongated lines and pointed shoes.
Text is integrated into the design, positioned to the left of the figure. The lettering, though partially obscured by the dancer’s form, indicates an event – a masked ball hosted by “Circulo de Bellas Artes.” This suggests a cultural or artistic society sponsoring the gathering.
A circular emblem appears in the lower right corner, bearing a profile portrait and the date 1934. The emblem likely represents the organization responsible for the event, providing a visual marker of its identity and the year of production. A dark, undulating line runs along the bottom edge, creating a sense of depth or perhaps representing a stage curtain.
The overall aesthetic is one of streamlined modernity, employing bold colors and simplified forms to create an immediate and visually arresting image. The combination of suggestive imagery and formal design elements suggests an attempt to attract attention and convey a sense of sophistication and revelry associated with the masked ball event.