drib 162 Peter Driben

The composition presents a woman in a provocative pose against a stark white backdrop, framed by a circular vignette that draws immediate attention to her face and upper torso. Her expression is one of playful coquetry; she smiles directly at the viewer with wide eyes, suggesting both invitation and amusement. The artist has rendered her skin tone as luminous, contrasting sharply with the dark fabric of her garment – a loosely draped shawl revealing considerable cleavage. She wears sheer stockings and high heels, further emphasizing an air of glamour and sensuality.
A small black cat perches on her shoulder, its gaze mirroring hers in a knowing manner. The presence of the animal introduces a layer of domesticity that subtly undercuts the overtly sexualized presentation. It could be interpreted as a symbol of feminine mystique or perhaps a playful commentary on the perceived nature of women during this period.
The text overlaying the image is bold and sensational, employing phrases like Women of Devils Island! and headlines promising tales of free love, exotic encounters, and even marriage to the deceased. The language employed contributes significantly to the overall tone – one that aims to titillate and entice the reader with promises of forbidden narratives.
The signature “Chester Copy” appears in a handwritten style on her thigh, adding an element of intimacy and personalization. This placement reinforces the feeling of being privy to a private moment. The artist’s name, Peter Driburg, is situated at the bottom left corner, indicating authorship while maintaining a degree of distance from the overtly suggestive content.
The paintings subtexts revolve around themes of female sexuality, exoticism, and escapism – all prevalent in popular culture of the era. The work appears to cater to a male gaze, presenting an idealized image of femininity designed to evoke desire and fantasy. It also hints at a fascination with the unconventional and taboo, suggesting a readership eager for narratives that challenge societal norms.