ma Elvgren Fast Lass Gil Elvgren (1914-1980)

The composition presents a young woman seated on the hood of a vehicle, seemingly triumphant after some form of competition. She holds a bowling ball in her left hand and a trophy in her right, both symbols suggesting victory and achievement. The background reveals a blurred landscape with what appears to be a finish line banner visible through trees, further reinforcing the idea of a race or contest.
The woman’s posture is relaxed yet confident; she leans slightly forward, engaging the viewer with a direct gaze and a subtle smile. Her attire – a short, white garment paired with stockings and heels – is suggestive of both leisure and a playful sensuality. The details of her appearance, including carefully styled hair secured by a headband and a wristwatch on her wrist, contribute to an image of polished femininity and contemporary style for the period.
The artist’s use of light is noteworthy; it highlights the womans form while softening the background, drawing attention to her as the central figure. The rendering of the vehicle’s chrome details adds a touch of luxury and reinforces the sense of prosperity associated with the era.
Subtextually, the work explores themes of female accomplishment within a framework of idealized beauty and consumerism. While she is presented as victorious, theres an underlying implication that her success is intertwined with her attractiveness and adherence to conventional feminine ideals. The trophy and bowling ball become less about athletic prowess and more about embodying a desirable image – a blend of charm, skill, and accessible glamour. The setting, the vehicle, and the overall aesthetic suggest a lifestyle aspirational for many viewers, hinting at a desire for both achievement and social status.