Panneau décoratif: Allégorie de l’Hiver (c.1902-1906) by Louise Abbéma animal_print their forms merging in quiet

their forms merging in quiet strength and care

this mixed-media piece transforms the visual codes of leather culture - dominance

One knee is raised

keeping our focus on Nicola’s body - relaxed

The scene is all velvet and varnish - scattered playing cards

Panneau décoratif: Allégorie de l’Hiver (c.1902-1906) by Louise Abbéma animal_print their forms merging in quietLouise Abbmas Panneau dcoratif: Allgorie de lHiver turns winter into a woman half hidden by gauze, frost and flowers. Framed by holly berries, bare branches and white blossoms, she feels less like a portrait than a season holding its breath. No confirmed lover or sitter is attached; the charge sits with Abbma herself. A celebrated Belle poque artist who lived openly as a lesbian, she made beauty feel self possessed, theatrical and quietly defiant.