pcal ge pad 040401 Gil Elvgren (1914-1980)

The artwork presents a dynamic scene centered around a female figure astride a powerful horse. The woman, clad in denim overalls and a wide-brimmed hat, raises her arm in a gesture that suggests triumph or exhilaration. Her posture is confident, almost defiant, conveying an impression of strength and independence. The horse, rendered with considerable anatomical detail, appears to be mid-stride, its muscles taut and its head turned slightly as if responding to the rider’s energy.
The color palette is dominated by warm earth tones – browns, tans, and ochres – which contribute to a sense of rustic authenticity and reinforce the connection to the American West. The lighting emphasizes the contours of both the woman and the horse, creating a dramatic interplay of light and shadow that enhances their three-dimensionality.
Superimposed on this central image is text in a stylized font. The phrase Were back in the saddle again! appears prominently above the figures, suggesting a return to normalcy or a resumption of activity after a period of disruption. This phrasing carries particular resonance given the date indicated – April 4th, 1944 – during World War II, implying a hopeful message about recovery and resilience.
The inclusion of Brown & Bigelow Remembrance Advertising at the bottom indicates that this was likely created as promotional material. The calendar format further contextualizes the work within a specific time frame and suggests its intended function: to serve as both an advertisement and a daily reminder.
Beyond the surface level, the painting evokes themes of perseverance, optimism, and the enduring spirit of the American frontier. The woman’s confident posture and the horses powerful movement symbolize strength and determination in the face of adversity. The overall composition conveys a sense of forward momentum and a hopeful outlook for the future.