Vamps, La Pretentieuse 

Erte’s 'Vamps, La Pretentieuse' presents us with a striking figure adorned in the style of the Art Deco era. The vertical composition, featuring the elongated form of a woman, is immediately captivating, the limited palette of blues, pinks and gold creates a sense of opulence. The woman's elaborate costume and headpiece draw our attention to the interplay between geometric and organic forms. Notice the symmetry, the precise lines of her dress contrasted by the flowing curves of the decorative elements that cascade around her. Erte was known for his ability to collapse the distinction between art and design, resulting in ambiguity. Through the formal construction of the composition, Erte invites us to consider how fashion functions as a sign system, conveying ideas about identity, luxury, and desire. The golden frame which surrounds the central figure adds another layer to this semiotic game; it is no longer a portrait but an image that mediates between art and cultural artefact.