p ge cal2000 02 Gil Elvgren (1914-1980)

The composition presents a woman in a stylized domestic setting, rendered with a glossy, almost hyperreal aesthetic. She is seated on an ornate stool, her posture suggesting both languidness and anticipation. The figures attire – a black lace bustier and matching stockings – immediately establishes a tone of playful sensuality, characteristic of the era’s pin-up imagery. Her skin exhibits a carefully crafted luminosity, emphasizing its smoothness and texture.
A vibrant green parrot perches on a slender pole positioned to her left, seemingly observing her with an equally inquisitive gaze. The birds presence introduces an element of exoticism and perhaps a subtle commentary on captivity or observation. Scattered feathers drift around the scene, reinforcing the avian theme and contributing to the overall sense of theatricality.
In her right hand, she holds a fan, partially obscuring her face while simultaneously directing attention towards it. This gesture creates a veil of mystery and invites speculation about her thoughts and intentions. A magazine lies discarded on the stool beside her, its cover displaying a portrait of another woman alongside the title Feathers and Fashions. The inclusion of this magazine suggests themes of beauty, style, and perhaps a commentary on the superficiality of societal ideals.
The background is starkly white, which serves to isolate the figure and intensify the focus on her pose and expression. A decorative border frames the entire image, further emphasizing its status as a carefully constructed visual artifact. The overall effect is one of calculated charm, blending elements of glamour, humor, and a knowing wink at the viewer.