phillips15 Clarence Coles Philips

The composition presents a stylized depiction of a woman in motion, seemingly caught mid-dance or flourish. She is positioned centrally within a heraldic shield shape, which immediately establishes a sense of prestige and value. The artist has rendered her with an Art Deco aesthetic; the bobbed hairstyle, the sleek dress, and the overall streamlined quality speak to the fashion sensibilities of the early 20th century.
The woman’s pose is dynamic, one leg extended in a graceful arc while she raises her arms overhead, creating a sense of lightness and movement. The fabric of her dress appears to billow around her, further emphasizing this feeling of fluidity. Behind her, a peacock is prominently displayed, its plumage mirroring the shape and color palette of the shield itself. This pairing of woman and bird suggests themes of beauty, elegance, and perhaps even vanity – qualities often associated with both. The peacock’s presence also introduces an element of exoticism and luxury.
The color scheme is dominated by earthy tones – browns, golds, and greens – accented by vibrant blues and purples in the peacocks feathers. This combination creates a visually rich and appealing image. The use of shading and highlights gives depth to the figures and suggests a deliberate attempt at realism within an otherwise stylized representation.
Beneath the central imagery, the words Holeproof Hosiery are displayed in a bold typeface, flanked by emblems bearing a distinctive “H” logo. This clearly indicates that the image functions as advertising material. The placement of the hosiery advertisement directly beneath the woman’s legs is strategic; it draws attention to this specific area of the body and subtly links the product with notions of grace, beauty, and confidence.
The subtexts within the work revolve around ideals of femininity, luxury, and the promise of a flawless appearance. The image aims not only to sell hosiery but also to associate the brand with aspirations of elegance and sophistication prevalent in the era.