kom 4710 Knute Munson (1900-1967)

The drawing presents a stylized depiction of a woman in a workplace setting, rendered with a blend of realism and caricature. The central figure is positioned prominently, seated on a chair that appears slightly too small for her frame. She wears a fitted dress, the color of which leans towards pink or coral, and her posture suggests both impatience and playful defiance. Her hands are raised above her head, one supporting her weight while the other seems to emphasize her exasperation. The facial expression conveys a mixture of boredom and amusement.
The background is filled with sketches and notations that contribute significantly to the overall narrative. A handwritten note affixed to a desk reads Betty - OUT TO LUNCH - BACK AT 3:00 KO, establishing the womans identity and indicating her temporary absence from work. Another, smaller sketch depicts a man seemingly rushing out of an office, accompanied by the comment “Imagine a guy going out to lunch –!” This suggests a commentary on workplace dynamics and potentially gendered expectations regarding punctuality and professional conduct.
The lower portion of the drawing contains a handwritten text block that reads: When Im all ready it’s aggravating To have folks late - would you keep me waiting? The tone is sarcastic, implying a frustration with tardiness while simultaneously acknowledging the absurdity of demanding absolute adherence to schedules. A signature appears beneath this text, lending an air of personal authorship and perhaps a touch of irony.
The drawings aesthetic leans towards mid-century American illustration style, characterized by clean lines, bold colors, and a playful approach to subject matter. The presence of the calendar at the bottom, dated 1947, anchors the work in a specific historical context – a period marked by post-war optimism and evolving social norms.
Subtly, the drawing explores themes of female agency within a professional environment. While the woman is presented as conventionally attractive, her posture and expressions challenge passive stereotypes. The surrounding sketches and text suggest a critique of workplace bureaucracy and the often-unspoken power dynamics that govern office life. Ultimately, the work appears to be a lighthearted yet insightful commentary on the complexities of balancing personal desires with professional obligations.