Wife of Russian boyar, The Woman & the Devil 

Erte’s “Wife of Russian Boyar, The Woman & the Devil” presents a figure adorned in symbols of opulence and tradition, yet tinged with ambiguity. Note the kokoshnik, a traditional Russian headdress, here transformed into an almost otherworldly crown, and the geometric patterns, which echo ancient Slavic motifs intended to ward off evil spirits. Consider how the artist intertwines the sacred with the profane. The pearls, cascading down the dress, traditionally symbolize purity and tears. Yet, combined with the devilish title and masked figure, they provoke a deeper psychological tension. The mask, reminiscent of commedia dell'arte, conceals and reveals, inviting viewers to question the true nature of the subject. Such juxtapositions are not new. The motif of the veiled woman appears throughout art history, from Salome to Judith, each embodying a complex interplay of allure and danger. Here, Erte taps into our collective memory, reminding us that beauty and darkness are often intertwined. This image, therefore, serves as a mirror, reflecting our own subconscious grappling with desire, fear, and the eternal dance between good and evil.