Rigoletto 

Editor: This is Erte's "Rigoletto," a mixed-media painting in the Art Deco style. I find the combination of patterns striking, especially the leopard print contrasting with the more ornate, almost theatrical, robe. What does this evoke for you? Curator: It really emphasizes the artifice so central to Art Deco. Consider the context: the roaring twenties, a period of unprecedented social change and economic prosperity for some. Erte, as a Russian émigré in Paris, built a career on the representation of luxury and entertainment. It is interesting how much is packed into this one painting. How might that influence a viewer? Editor: In what ways? I suppose I'm not seeing all of the social components within the visual splendor. Curator: Think about it as a designed persona. The subject is a theatrical character, adorned in symbolic markers of wealth and status that speak to an exclusive audience. Do you think that changes how we read her presentation? Is it aspirational, satirical, celebratory? Editor: I think I lean more toward it being aspirational. The strong lines, bold patterns and idealized figure speak to the fantasies and escapism found in popular theater. I suppose the political aspect comes in with a recognition that only a few could enjoy the lifestyle represented. Curator: Precisely. It encapsulates how deeply fashion, theater, and visual culture were intertwined with social identity and even political statements during this period. Something to think about! Editor: Absolutely, I'll never look at Art Deco the same way!