drib 018 Peter Driben

The composition presents a woman in a provocative pose against a vibrant yellow background. The figure is positioned diagonally across the frame, her body angled towards the viewer with a slight twist that emphasizes her curves. She appears to be emerging from or partially concealed by an oversized, striped shirt, which is carelessly knotted around her neck and draped over one shoulder. This garment contributes to a sense of playful disarray and suggests a recent interruption or hasty dressing.
The woman’s expression conveys a mixture of amusement and flirtation; her lips are parted slightly as if shes about to speak, and her eyes possess a knowing quality. The lighting highlights the contours of her body, creating a sensual effect that is further amplified by the close-up perspective. Her hair, styled in soft waves, frames her face and adds to the overall impression of glamour.
The text overlaying the image provides additional layers of meaning. Phrases like Beauty Parade and Beauty and the Beast introduce themes of competition, allure, and potentially, a power dynamic between genders. The inclusion of “Secrets of a Female Impersonator” hints at an exploration of identity, performance, and perhaps, subversion of conventional roles.
The typography itself is characteristic of mid-century advertising, bold and attention-grabbing. The presence of the magazine’s price and publication date (Sept. 25¢) anchors the work within a specific historical context – likely the 1940s or 1950s. The handwritten annotation in the upper left corner adds an element of personal touch, suggesting that this image held significance for someone beyond its original intended audience.
Overall, the artwork utilizes visual cues and textual elements to construct a narrative centered on female beauty, allure, and a subtle undercurrent of playful transgression. The deliberate ambiguity surrounding the woman’s situation – the partially revealed clothing, the suggestive text – invites interpretation and contributes to the images enduring appeal.