L’Escarpolette 1971

Léonor Fini created *L’Escarpolette* using oil paint on a circular canvas, a format that really draws your eye to the painting's smooth, luminous surface. The canvas preparation would have been key here. It is likely the artist would have applied several layers of gesso before beginning to paint, as this would allow for the creation of her trademark translucent and luminescent surface. Fini then carefully built up thin layers of oil paint, blending and glazing the pigments to achieve a subtle, ethereal effect. Looking at the figures and their delicate coloring, it's clear how important the material qualities of oil paint were to Fini's vision. The smoothness and refinement of the paint surface really underscores the dreamlike quality of the image. By emphasizing technique, Fini elevates the value of craft in fine art and creates a space for new interpretations of beauty and skill.