kom 4702 Knute Munson (1900-1967)

The composition presents a striking juxtaposition of idealized femininity and wartime practicality. A woman occupies the foreground, posed confidently on what appears to be a metal stool or seat. She is clad in a short, olive-green robe belted at the waist, revealing dark stockings and high-heeled shoes. Her hair is styled in an elaborate wave, secured with a decorative ribbon. The pose itself – a slight lean forward, one leg extended – suggests both allure and readiness. A caption positioned near her lower body reads: Im in demand cause Im never late to start a job – or keep a date.
Behind the central figure, a flurry of sketched scenes unfolds. These vignettes depict various activities associated with wartime labor: a woman operating machinery, another engaged in what seems like factory work, and a man seemingly struggling with a task. The style is loose and sketchy, contrasting sharply with the polished rendering of the woman in the foreground. A bus stop sign stands prominently to her right, further anchoring the scene within an urban or industrial setting.
The calendar format at the top, displaying February 1947, provides crucial contextual information. This suggests a post-war period where women were transitioning back into domestic roles after having filled vital labor positions during the conflict. The image’s subtext likely revolves around this societal shift and the tension between traditional feminine ideals and the newfound independence many women experienced during wartime.
The womans confident posture and assertive caption can be interpreted as a statement of self-reliance and professional capability, subtly challenging conventional gender roles. The sketched scenes behind her serve to acknowledge the contributions of women in the workforce while simultaneously placing them within a backdrop of ongoing industrial activity. The overall effect is one of playful irony – a celebration of female strength and ambition framed within a calendar designed for everyday use.