The Water Lily c. 19th century

William B. Closson created this tiny engraving, "The Water Lily," in the late 19th or early 20th century. During this time, artistic depictions of women were often caught between celebrating female beauty and reinforcing societal expectations. Here, a woman is submerged in water, a classic symbol of purity and the unconscious. But there's also a sense of melancholy, isn't there? Is she surrendering, or finding solace? Is the water a place of cleansing or concealment? The vertical format, unusual for a reclining figure, heightens the feeling of being confined, perhaps alluding to the limited roles women were often assigned. The delicate lines and subtle shading add to the ambiguity, inviting us to consider the complexities of female identity during this era. It's a quiet yet powerful meditation on the delicate balance between societal expectations and personal freedom.