Freedom and Captivity 

Erte, born Romain de Tirtoff, created "Freedom and Captivity" as part of the Art Deco movement, which flourished between World War I and World War II. The image shows a woman trapped within the confines of her elaborate gown and headdress, while the swords hanging above her head suggest a looming threat or inevitable danger. The white birds, in contrast, symbolize freedom and the possibility of escape. This tension reflects the changing role of women in the early 20th century, where traditional expectations clashed with desires for independence and self-expression. The artwork's title encapsulates this duality, inviting us to reflect on the ways in which individuals can be both constrained and liberated by societal norms and personal choices. Erte offers a vision of elegance tinged with melancholy, a stark reminder that beauty and freedom can sometimes be at odds.