The Zodiac, Aries 

Curator: Look at this striking graphic work by Erté entitled “The Zodiac, Aries.” Though undated, its bold lines and geometric shapes clearly situate it within the Art Deco movement. What are your initial thoughts? Editor: I’m immediately drawn to the dynamism of this piece! The vibrant red figure lunging forward against that dramatic black backdrop, it feels very powerful and assertive. Is that intentional, do you think, playing into typical Aries symbolism? Curator: Precisely. Erté’s work often engaged with symbolism, and here, Aries, the ram, is represented as a dynamic, almost heroic figure, wielding a sword. Observe how he also incorporates astrological and numerological references, like the repeating days of the week and number formations which frames the figure. This interplay emphasizes themes of destiny and cosmic forces influencing individual identity. Editor: I see the ram glyph, cleverly integrated into the flaming terrain near the figure's feet. And his shield—that geometric design is captivating, though the colour scheme is so striking against the earthy colour palette! I also note that both the star formation and what is being held on the extended hand of the figure have geometrical elements. Is this to draw away from making religious inferences? What a powerful visual metaphor! Curator: The figure is set against a dual landscape with flames depicted on the right, contrasting against the cosmos on the left, but even there, it is interesting to note the absence of any celestial figures that would indicate other established cosmologies, particularly those that could indicate organized religion or myth. This resonates with modern considerations of identity politics that deconstruct traditional hierarchical systems. Editor: So it avoids explicitly defining power structures, and places value instead on the idea of destiny? Perhaps it hints at a shift in values influenced by both emerging science and technology? Overall it gives the piece a very unique visual language. It definitely offers food for thought! Curator: It certainly does, by embracing the idea of shaping one's destiny within the vast astrological context, the visual design subtly calls to question ideas surrounding tradition and modernity. Editor: Absolutely, Erté manages to blend historical symbolism with forward-thinking perspectives in a truly visually appealing way. I have found that Erté’s use of symbolism is both intriguing and multifaceted.