Dimensions: 27 1/2 x 21 7/16 in. (69.85 x 54.45 cm) (sight)33 1/2 x 27 7/16 in. (85.09 x 69.69 cm) (outer frame)
Copyright: Public Domain
Alfred Stevens captured Mademoiselle Dubois in oil on canvas, presenting her with a bouquet of irises. These flowers, held so gently, are steeped in symbolism. Irises, named after the Greek goddess of the rainbow, have long been associated with messages of hope and faith. But observe how the meaning shifts across time and cultures! In some eras, irises signified royalty, in others, deep sorrow or remembrance. Think of the fleur-de-lis, a stylized iris, emblem of French monarchs, embodying power and divine right. Here, the irises might whisper of delicate beauty or a soul in contemplation. The way Mademoiselle Dubois clasps the flowers—almost protectively—engages us on a subconscious level, sparking feelings of empathy. The cyclical nature of these symbols is clear: irises, like echoes through history, resurface, evolve, and take on fresh meaning, subtly altering how we see ourselves.
Comments
Alfred Stevens built his reputation based on paintings of sumptuously attired, anonymous beauties who were representative of a type-la belle Parisienne. The Portrait of Mademoiselle Dubois, in contrast, is a bold statement built upon direct observation of one of his students with whom he was well acquainted. Her appraising and direct gaze, as well as her relaxed posture and confident demeanor, is a daring concoction and testifies to the artist's appreciation of her intelligence and character. These qualities are thrown into high relief by the stark expanse of awning behind her. Stevens' use of such a bold foil is an innovative touch of modernity that parallels those of his close friend, Edouard Manet. The compressed space also betrays Stevens' interest in Japanese spatial construction-a reminder that he was one of the first artists in Paris (along with Manet) to collect Japanese prints and objects.
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