Romanticism
X woman
X woman
The inspiration for the bracelet comes from one of Sargent's most famous works, Madame X, which is also a highly controversial painting. The woman in the painting is wearing a black halter evening gown, with one hand supporting the table and the other pulling at her skirt. Her body is facing towards the paper, her upper body slightly tilted, her head looking to the right, and her delicate profile and tight neckline showcase the charm of Western women.
It was this portrait of a woman displaying her charm that caused a stir at the Paris Salon exhibition in 1884. People did not praise the painter's sense of beauty or the charm of the woman in the painting, but rather severely criticized the painting for being indecent and seductive. Due to the various opinions, Sargent modified the falling shoulder strap of the painting, which was widely criticized, into the more dignified and elegant style we see today. The name of the painting was also changed from Madame Goetreau to Madame X.
The crescent moon hair ornament on her head may be a subtle reference to Madame Goetreau's childlike innocence, as she remains true to herself amidst the world's criticism.