Celestial Virtues 

Curator: Well, what a striking image. Before us, we have Erte’s “Celestial Virtues.” It's a print combining mixed media and watercolor, emblematic of his signature Art Deco style. What are your initial thoughts? Editor: It exudes a dramatic, almost theatrical flair. The woman, seemingly a central figure, is framed by these oversized sleeves that resemble wings or drapes, imbuing a powerful presence, and she is so elegantly elongated. Is it me, or does it have a symbolic feeling? Curator: Erte certainly was adept at weaving allegories through fashion and design. His illustrations often depicted powerful, graceful figures who personified abstract ideas, as was a way for him to explore ideals of beauty, morality, or principles—virtues, as the title states—via the visual spectacle of costumery. Editor: And that radiating halo…or is it some extravagant headdress? The dots that compose it resemble those you’d find in depictions of cosmic events or divine auras. How might this speak to the virtue at hand? Curator: Quite possibly. Perhaps the artist links inner strength and morality with an almost cosmic divinity, placing "virtue" as a guiding celestial power for those who act upon its principles. We must consider that Erte worked extensively with stage and costume design. How might society at the time read that, politically and artistically? Editor: In the context of the burgeoning modernity of the Art Deco period, it’s possible Erte used such symbolism to elevate these principles amidst cultural shifts and industrial advancements. Was he, through fashion, asserting an ageless human moral fabric against new emerging societal norms? Curator: A fascinating theory. It aligns with the visual language he employs. His work suggests virtue transcends time and mortal trends by being woven into the celestial order itself, a beautiful encapsulation of visual symbol continuity. Editor: Erte always had a way of prompting consideration of deeper concepts with elegant visuals. Curator: Absolutely. His art operates as a powerful dialogue between ornamentation and ideals.