Woman Naked to the Waist 19th-20th century

Editor: Here we have Louis Michel Eilshemius’s "Woman Naked to the Waist," a pencil drawing. The woman's posture suggests a certain defiance, hands on her hips. What might this piece be saying about the female gaze? Curator: Considering the period, it's tempting to see this as a commentary on the objectification of women. How does Eilshemius use line and form to either reinforce or subvert that objectification, especially given the limited information we have about the date? Editor: I hadn't thought about it that way. I was too focused on her pose as strength, rather than considering the context of who might be looking. Curator: Exactly. It's about unpacking the power dynamics inherent in the act of seeing and being seen, and Eilshemius’s potential awareness of those dynamics. Editor: This gives me a lot to consider. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. Art is about asking questions and engaging in conversation.