In Velvet Plum Leila delves into a rich narrative of luxury, nature, and complex emotions. It portrays a woman in the midst of her garden, exuding elegance and poise as she stands surrounded by lush greenery. The woman is adorned in a velvet dress, a garment that holds particular significance in the composition and was inspired by a remarkable piece that Fanner encountered and photographed during her visit to the Bevilacqua Textile Factory in Venice, a place renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and historic velvets.

In the woman’s hand, she holds a ripe plum, freshly picked from the fruit trees that populate the background. The plum, with its rich color and fullness, is a symbol of life’s bounty and the pleasures of nature; yet, its ripeness hints at the passage of time and the inevitability of change. The fruit serves as a focal point within the painting, drawing the viewer's eye and inviting contemplation of its symbolism.

While the overall atmosphere of Velvet Plum is one of richness and luxury, Fanner has also woven a subtle thread of melancholy into the canvas. This complexity is most evident in the woman’s expression, which reveals a glimpse of sadness or introspection, adding depth to the work and making it more than just a portrayal of beauty and wealth. It suggests a narrative beyond the immediate visual, one that touches on themes of transience, longing, or perhaps the bittersweet nature of memories.

Fanner leaves this emotional layer open to interpretation, acknowledging that different viewers may perceive the painting in various ways. Some might see only the opulence and elegance, while others might pick up on the more somber tones within the piece. This openness is a hallmark of Fanner’s work, inviting each observer to bring their own experiences to the interpretation of the scene.