GCGEPU-188 1960 The Right Scale Gil Elvgren (1914-1980)

Here we observe a depiction of a woman in a stylized pose against a solid blue background. The figure is positioned on a scale, her body angled away from the viewer while she appears to be adjusting or pulling down her garment. Her hair is styled in short, blonde curls, and her expression conveys surprise or slight dismay. The artist has rendered her skin tone with a noticeable tan, emphasizing the curves of her physique.
The composition utilizes a pin-up aesthetic, characteristic of mid-20th century advertising imagery. The woman’s posture and attire are designed to be alluring while maintaining an air of playful innocence. This visual strategy was frequently employed to connect products with desirable qualities and lifestyles.
Beneath the scale, the phrase A WEIGHTY PROBLEM is inscribed in a bold typeface. This text serves as a direct reference to the object on which the woman stands, but also introduces a layer of subtext concerning societal anxieties surrounding body image and weight management. The painting’s humor derives from the juxtaposition of the idealized female form with the mundane reality of measuring ones weight.
The artist’s choice of color palette – the vibrant blue background contrasting with the flesh tones – further enhances the visual impact, drawing attention to the central figure and reinforcing the playful yet suggestive nature of the work. The signature in the lower right corner suggests a personal touch from the creator, adding an element of authorship to this commercial piece.