A Young Lady with a Red Fan 1897

Eugen von Blaas painted “A Young Lady with a Red Fan” with oil on canvas, though the exact date and location remain unknown. This image encapsulates 19th-century European society, particularly its views on women and their roles. The young lady’s attire and adornments—the delicate shawl, the floral bodice, the jewelry—speak to a certain level of social standing and the importance placed on appearances. The red fan itself might be seen as a symbol of coquetry and the art of flirtation, common themes in the art of the period. Blaas was known for his depictions of Venetian life, and this painting, while not explicitly set in Venice, evokes the romanticism and idealized beauty associated with the city. The painting doesn't directly critique societal norms, it does capture the aesthetic and cultural values of its time. Understanding such artwork requires looking into the social history of 19th-century Europe, examining fashion trends, gender roles, and the art market of the time. By consulting historical archives, fashion plates, and exhibition records, we can better understand the social conditions that shaped its production.