Leonor Fini 1907-1996
Masque surréaliste, 1958, c.
velvet, phosphorescent sequins, mother-of-pearl, black oblong beads, white strings, small branches with bronze leaves
12 5/8 x 12 5/8 x 7 1/4 inches
32 x 32 x 18.5 cm
32 x 32 x 18.5 cm
Fini’s fascination with masquerade and gender reversal stems as early as her childhood. She was born in Buenos Aires but her mother quickly took her to Trieste, Italy, to flee...
Fini’s fascination with masquerade and gender reversal stems as early as her childhood. She was born in Buenos Aires but her mother quickly took her to Trieste, Italy, to flee her father. Her father followed them to Italy and attempted to kidnap Fini; Fini’s mother then disguised Fini as a boy when in public to avoid her father.
In addition to her costume designs for numerous films, ballets, and operas, Fini also frequently dressed up for masquerade balls in the 1930s and 1940s. This mask was created circa 1958 for the artist's own personal pleasure.
In addition to her costume designs for numerous films, ballets, and operas, Fini also frequently dressed up for masquerade balls in the 1930s and 1940s. This mask was created circa 1958 for the artist's own personal pleasure.