Perhaps the marble egg crowning her headdress refers to regeneration and continuity. A similar headdress appears on a woman surrounded by astrological signs that Mucha used for a calendar poster. Like time and nature, this silver figure is constantly changing, responding to minute differences in light. Even the hair seems in motion. Swirling tresses wrap like tendrils around her neck and shoulders, actually becoming the base of the bust.
Nature is eternal, but eternally in a state of transformation.
Accompanied by the music of Chopin, Schubert, and Debussy, Fuller appeared on a stage lit from below and behind wearing a costume of diaphanous fabric attached to short wands. As she manipulated the fabric it took on the appearance of birds or flowers. What an extraordinary genius. Learn more about the Paris 1900 World's Fair and compare its impact with more recent fairs. The publisher of the Bernhardt posters quickly realized the popularity of Mucha's designs and put him under contract, producing the graphic work for which the artist is best known.