ca. 1880 - 1895. France. gouache on "chickenskin" leaf. mother-of-pearl sticks. signed: Lasellaz. folded, pleated fan.
Mme. G. Lasellaz worked for at least three prominent fan firms: Adrien J. Rodien, E. Kees, and Duvelleroy (Percival 145). Painted in gouache,
this charming vellum leaf presents a courtship scene. The man on the right (perhaps the suitor himself or a poet serving as emissary) woos the
young girl in pink. She has evidently turned to the older woman, who shares her charge's delight. Thus, fidelity, as represented by the woman's
blue dress and small spaniel, advises innocence, symbolized by the younger woman's pink dress. The steps in the right background may symbolize
Christian virtues: the three theological virtues of faith, hope, and love (or charity); the four cardinal ones of courage, justice, prudence,
and temperance. The fact that the steps lead up to a large (Georgian?) house may signify the chance for the beloved to improve her social status
through the proposed marriage.
Especially intriguing is the scene's gentle humor, evident not only in the women's response, but the portrayal of the man. His ruffled lace, gold
waistcoat, intricately curled wig, and exaggerated mustache give him a foppish air. The small dog ignores everything behind him and stares toward
whoever views the fan.
The obverse of the double leaf presents two birds and flowers, airily painted. The iridescent mother-of-pearl sticks and guards are intricately
pierced and painted in gold with flowers and birds, and backed with goldfish.
gl. 12" (30.5cm) gw. 1 1/16" (2.8cm) op. 22 1/4" (56.5cm); 180º 14/2 paste stud
Armstrong, Collector's, cat. #38.
< back
|