ma Elvgren Stepping High Gil Elvgren (1914-1980)

The composition presents a woman in a suggestive pose, seemingly ascending from a large, yellow box. She is clad in lingerie – a pale slip and sheer stockings – and her posture conveys both effort and playful coquetry. Her gaze is directed towards the viewer, establishing an immediate connection that borders on invitation. The lighting is carefully orchestrated; it highlights the curves of her body while casting a dramatic shadow behind her, contributing to the overall sense of theatricality.
The box itself bears text: Step Up To The Best In Advertising, accompanied by a phone number. This immediately frames the scene within a commercial context, suggesting that the womans ascent represents ambition or progress within the advertising industry. The phrase “Stepping High!” printed at the base reinforces this notion of upward mobility and achievement.
Several subtexts emerge from this arrangement. Firstly, there’s an overt sexualization inherent in the depiction of the woman. Her attire, pose, and direct gaze are designed to elicit a response rooted in desire. Secondly, the image subtly links female desirability with professional success. The implication is that by stepping up, one can achieve both personal allure and career advancement. This reinforces prevailing societal expectations regarding womens roles during the period this work likely originated.
The artist’s signature at the bottom right corner adds a layer of authority, solidifying the image as a deliberate artistic creation rather than a spontaneous snapshot. The overall effect is one of calculated charm – a carefully constructed advertisement that utilizes idealized femininity to promote a particular brand or service while simultaneously commenting on the aspirations and anxieties surrounding success in a professional sphere.