Untitled (woman in dress and long gloves reclining on furs) c. 1935

This is an untitled photographic image by Paul Gittings, showing a woman in a dress and long gloves reclining on furs. The key element here is the fur. There are histories of creative practices and aesthetics associated with fur. From the long history of its use in clothing and adornment, to its role as a commodity in global trade, the pelt has acquired social and cultural significance. In this image, the animal fur is used as a signifier of luxury. The furs stand in contrast to the woman's dress and gloves, drawing our attention to the way that clothing mediates her relationship with the world. Note the inherent qualities of the furs, like the texture and weight, which add to a sense of extravagance and comfort, but also evoke wider issues of labor, politics, and consumption. Thinking about materials, making, and context helps us understand the full meaning of this artwork, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.