Portræt af Lili Elbe med grøn fjervifte (1920)

Gerda Wegener's enchanting painting "Portrait of Lili Elbe with Green Feather Fan" from 1920 showcases the artist’s remarkable ability to capture both the elegance and introspective nature of her subject. This artwork depicts Lili Elbe, one of the earliest recipients of gender confirmation surgery and Wegener’s muse and spouse. Lili is portrayed in a graceful pose, her profile view highlighting the soft contours of her face and her gentle gaze lowered, perhaps lost in thought.Lili dons a pastel dress adorned with delicate beadwork, her shoulders enveloped in a lavender shawl that complements her golden hair. The titular green feather fan, vibrant and sultry, adds a touch of exotic allure while creating a striking contrast with the floral background. The lush, densely patterned backdrop brims with various flowers and leaves, immersing the viewer in a visually rich environment that echoes the opulence of the Art Nouveau and early Modernist styles.Wegener’s use of vivid colors and the intimate, yet bold portrayal of Lili creates a sense of warmth and vulnerability. This painting is not only a celebration of Lili's identity but also a testament to Wegener's progressive views and artistic prowess during a time of social and cultural transformation.