Lady with silk stole 

Miklos Barabas painted this portrait of a lady with a silk stole, and what immediately strikes the eye is the stark contrast between her somber black dress and the delicate pink bow at her neck. This bow, a seemingly simple adornment, carries echoes of earlier aristocratic portraiture, where ribbons and lace signified status and refinement. The bow itself is an ancient symbol, seen in various guises throughout history, from the simple ties of ancient Roman garments to the elaborate knots of Renaissance finery. Think of the recurring motif of the knot in marriage portraits, symbolizing commitment. Here, the bow may suggest a gentler, more subdued form of feminine identity. The lady's serene gaze and restrained posture convey a sense of inward reflection, a psychological depth that transcends the mere representation of social status. Perhaps the artist intended to capture not just her likeness but also a glimpse into her soul, revealing an emotional landscape as intricate and layered as the folds of her silk stole. This visual language engages us on a subconscious level.