Alphabet L 

Here we have Erte’s elegant representation of the letter 'L' which captures the spirit of Art Deco through the symbolic figures of a woman and a feline. The woman, adorned in a matching leopard print, stands tall, subtly holding a leash attached to the creature below, suggesting a sense of control. Images of women and felines have a long history. We can consider the ancient Egyptian goddess Bastet, often depicted as a cat or a woman with the head of a cat, embodying protection, fertility, and motherhood. Over time, this motif has morphed, reflecting changing cultural attitudes towards femininity. In Erte’s rendition, the symbolism subtly shifts. The woman's commanding stance alongside the submissive feline hints at the complex interplay between power and beauty. It evokes a sense of allure, engaging us on a primal level. The image is a captivating symbol, reflecting our collective fascination with primal beauty and strength.