PYG GE 013 Bear Facts Bearback Rider 1962 Gil Elvgren (1914-1980)

The composition presents a striking juxtaposition of human and animal forms within a stylized, theatrical setting. A woman, posed in a provocative manner, sits astride a large polar bear. Her attire is scant – a black lace corset-like garment barely concealing her upper body, with stockings completing the ensemble. The overall effect leans towards an idealized representation of feminine beauty, characteristic of mid-century pinup art.
The background is a deep, saturated burgundy, devoid of detail and serving to isolate the central figures. This stark contrast amplifies the artificiality of the scene, suggesting a constructed reality rather than a naturalistic depiction. The lighting is carefully orchestrated; it highlights the woman’s skin and hair while casting the bear in softer shadows, emphasizing its bulk and fur texture.
The subtexts embedded within this work are complex and layered. The pairing of a human female with a powerful animal like a polar bear immediately evokes themes of dominance and submission, control and vulnerability. The womans confident posture and direct gaze suggest an assertion of power, while the bear’s passive acceptance implies a subjugation to her will. This dynamic can be interpreted as a commentary on gender roles and societal expectations prevalent during the 1960s.
The artist utilizes a deliberate sense of artifice; the scene is clearly staged, with the womans pose appearing somewhat unnatural and theatrical. The bear itself seems less like a wild animal and more like an object within this carefully constructed tableau. This artificiality contributes to the work’s overall allure, inviting viewers to engage with its playful yet provocative nature.
The artist’s signature is visible in the lower left corner, adding a layer of authorship and artistic intention to the scene. The text beneath the image provides contextual information regarding its origin and date, further grounding it within a specific historical moment.