drib 217 Peter Driben

The composition presents a female figure dominating the visual field, positioned on what appears to be a plush, textured surface – likely a velvet ottoman or similar furnishing. The woman is depicted in a provocative pose, leaning forward with one hand resting suggestively on her thigh. She wears a vibrant red two-piece bathing suit and matching high heels, further emphasizing a sense of glamour and allure. Her hair is styled in short, dark waves, framing a face characterized by carefully applied makeup – red lipstick and defined eyebrows being particularly noticeable.
The background is starkly black, which serves to isolate the figure and intensify her presence. Text elements are superimposed on this backdrop: bold lettering proclaims Beauty Parade, accompanied by a tagline describing the subject as “The World’s Loveliest Girls.” Further text at the bottom lists categories like Showgirls - Models - Pin-Ups. The date DEC and a price of 25¢ appear in the upper right corner, indicating its function as a cover for a periodical.
Beyond the immediate depiction of physical attractiveness, the work conveys subtexts related to idealized femininity and consumer culture. The carefully constructed appearance of the woman – the styling, makeup, and attire – suggests an emphasis on manufactured beauty and performance. Her pose, while seemingly casual, is clearly staged to elicit a specific response from the viewer.
The text reinforces this notion by presenting her as part of a spectacle – a parade of beauty intended for consumption. The inclusion of categories like “Showgirls” and “Pin-Ups” positions her within a framework of entertainment and objectification, hinting at broader societal attitudes towards women during the period in which it was created. The price tag further underscores the commodification of this image and the woman herself.