Tamara de Lempicka was one of the most daring and visionary female artists of the 20th century. This in-depth look at La Belle Rafaëla (1927) reveals why the painting is considered a radical and sensual pinnacle of Lempicka’s career—and a defining image of the Art Deco era. Described by art historians as “one of the most remarkable nudes of the century” and “the highest achievement of the painter’s career,” La Belle Rafaëla showcases Lempicka’s signature blend of elegance, eroticism, and modernist style. More than just a striking portrait, this painting boldly reclaims the female nude from its traditional role as a male artist’s subject, offering instead a powerful and self-assured vision of femininity. Lempicka’s deep understanding of classical art history infuses this modern masterpiece with timeless resonance, while her sleek, stylized forms and provocative compositions broke new ground for women in art. La Belle Rafaëla remains an enduring symbol of sensual liberation and artis...