Très Parisien, ca. 1926 : Tempête. La tempête a surpris (...) c. 1926

Editor: This whimsical piece is entitled "Tr\u00e8s Parisien, ca. 1926: Temp\u00eate", created around 1926 by an anonymous artist. It's a watercolor on paper and I am immediately struck by the flatness of the colors and shapes. How do you interpret this work? Curator: Oh, this darling thing! For me, it's all about Parisian chic and the *drama* of unexpected weather. Look at the confident line, the simplified forms – pure Art Deco. The rain might be pouring, but *darling*, style must prevail! I bet she even secretly relishes the moment. The way the black and yellow just *pop*. Tell me, what kind of story do *you* think she's telling the rain with that umbrella? Editor: I think she’s saying "try your best, but you can’t ruin my cape.” Maybe that’s what the little dog shape is hinting at on the umbrella! The caption in French kind of reflects the same, with sarcasm on the imperméable quality. The flat color is definitely the key! I did not notice at first! Curator: Absolutely! The little dog shape is darling, isn’t it? There's a delightful tension, a wink and a nod between fashion and function. Don’t you think it encapsulates that slightly ironic Parisian spirit? Makes you almost want to *dance* in the rain! Editor: It really does capture a unique spirit and feeling. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure, always happy to indulge in a bit of artistic *flanerie* with you!