Lady with Flowers 1896

J.C. Leyendecker made this drawing of a lady with flowers using pencil, pen, and ink. The image speaks to the social conventions of turn-of-the-century America. Leyendecker presents us with a vision of feminine beauty and poise. But it’s worth asking what social rituals and institutions underwrite these images? We see the woman adorned with extravagant clothes, and the flowers are a token of respect. The soft lines and colors, combined with her downward gaze, create a sense of demureness and passive acceptance. This artwork speaks to the social expectations placed on women in the United States at this time. For further insights, you might look into fashion magazines or etiquette guides, as well as popular fiction. These sources can help us better understand the social codes at play in Leyendecker's drawing, revealing how art reflects and shapes our understanding of gender roles and social structures.