c-ge 076 Gil Elvgren (1914-1980)

The artwork presents a female figure in a stylized and idealized pose. She is seated on a golden stool, her body angled towards the viewer with a deliberate display of leg and torso. The womans expression is one of playful confidence; she smiles directly at the observer while holding open the fabric of her blouse, revealing a glimpse of undergarments. Her hair is styled in voluminous curls, framing a face rendered with smooth, almost porcelain-like features.
The color palette is dominated by warm tones – ochre, beige, and gold – which contribute to an overall sense of luxury and sensuality. The background is blurred and indistinct, drawing attention solely to the figure. A signature appears in cursive script on her thigh, adding a personal touch and suggesting intimacy.
A decorative border featuring vertical stripes of red, white, and blue frames the composition, introducing a patriotic element that contrasts with the overtly sensual subject matter. This juxtaposition creates an intriguing tension – a suggestion of both allure and national identity. The text WELL SEATED appears beneath the figure, adding a layer of ironic commentary to the pose and presentation.
The work seems intended to evoke a sense of fantasy and escapism, playing on established tropes of feminine beauty and desirability while simultaneously incorporating elements that complicate or subvert those expectations. It is likely designed to appeal to a male gaze, but the woman’s confident demeanor challenges passive objectification, presenting her as an active participant in the visual exchange.