Cc-pd025 Peter Driben

The composition presents a female figure in a staged, theatrical setting. She is positioned at a slight angle to the viewer, her body turned partially away while maintaining eye contact. The background is entirely black, which serves to isolate and emphasize the subject, eliminating any distracting environmental context.
Here we see a woman with auburn hair styled in loose waves, adorned with what appears to be a floral arrangement incorporating feathers. Her expression is one of playful defiance; she gazes directly at the viewer while holding a lit cigarette between her fingers. The clothing contributes significantly to the overall impression. She wears an off-the-shoulder yellow blouse and a short green skirt secured by suspenders, revealing black fishnet stockings. This combination evokes a sense of deliberate exposure and controlled allure.
The artist’s rendering exhibits a high degree of realism in depicting skin tones and textures; the sheen on her hair and the folds of her clothing are meticulously detailed. The lighting is dramatic, highlighting certain areas of her body while leaving others in shadow, further enhancing the sensual quality of the image.
Subtexts within this work revolve around themes of femininity, sexuality, and performance. The woman’s direct gaze challenges conventional notions of female passivity, suggesting a degree of agency and self-awareness. The cigarette, often associated with rebellion and sophistication, reinforces this impression. The carefully constructed costume and pose imply that she is playing a role, presenting an idealized version of herself for the viewers consumption. This raises questions about authenticity and the construction of identity within popular culture. The overall effect is one of calculated charm, inviting both admiration and a degree of critical reflection on the portrayal of women in visual media.