Zizi I love You 

"Zizi I Love You" is a work made by Erte, predominantly using gouache and ink. Look closely, and you'll notice the striking color contrasts – the bold red of the central figure against the extravagant purple plumes. Erte's graphic style emphasizes the material properties of ink and gouache. With the application of ink lines, we can see the artist captured a remarkable sense of volume and depth, particularly in the draped fabric and cascading feather boas. But the subject is not merely a visual fantasy; it's an engagement with the spectacle of fashion and theater. Consider the labor involved in producing such opulent textiles and accessories. These goods were very much products of a hierarchical society, of the period, reflecting inequalities in wealth and class. By emphasizing the connection between materials, making, and the social context of production, we move beyond simply admiring Erte's aesthetic. We can consider the power dynamics inherent in his glamorous designs.