Holding a delicate flower, known as lavatera trimestris, or more commonly as rose mallow, Elen Bezhen shows her figure in her “Lavatera Trimestris” standing amongst a tapestry of Renaissance florals. The rose mallow is often associated with intense emotions, like being swept away by love, particularly during the Victorian Era. It can also relate to nurturing and grace, especially in the context of femininity. In Elen Bezhen’s portrait, the lavatera trimestris stands out from the rest of the composition, perhaps signifying that this feminine figure is still trying to connect with their inner grace, or maybe they are offering a piece of themselves to one who they care for deeply. The placid expression invites viewers to interpret this as they like, perhaps seeing themselves within the work.