Lady with a fan

“Lady with a Fan” presents the image of a mature woman whose elegance has endured through the years and become an integral part of her character. The portrait shows a lady in refined attire: a dress or skirt complemented by a scarf, a hat with a veil, and a folded fan in her hand. Before the viewer appears a woman who has lived a long life yet has not lost respect and love for herself. Her elegance is perceived not as coquetry but as a calm awareness of dignity and confidence.

The figure is rendered with subtle expressiveness. The position of the hands emphasizes the grace of the silhouette, in which an echo of Art Nouveau can be felt. The entire image conveys serenity, composure, and inner strength. In this type of feminine personality, heroism reveals itself in loyalty to one’s own nature, in the ability to preserve individuality, and in the pursuit of beauty that does not fade with time.

The details of the costume play an important role in revealing character. A scarf and shawl patterned in large and small polka dots correspond with the design of the veil and create a play of contrasts. Differences in material, texture, and scale—whether large and small, warm and cool, simple and complex—form the foundation of the image and serve as a key artistic device of the painting.

The composition is reinforced by the elongated vertical format of the canvas. This choice highlights the slenderness and refinement of the model and enhances the impression of noble elegance embodied in her appearance.