pcal ge pad 041801 Gil Elvgren (1914-1980)

The artwork presents a calendar cover from 1952, exhibiting a stylized depiction of a young woman in a playful and suggestive pose. The composition is dominated by the figure, positioned diagonally across the frame, creating a sense of dynamic movement. She wears a light blue, short-sleeved garment, revealing one leg clad in matching stockings and dark shoes with prominent heels. Her hair, styled in voluminous curls, frames her face, which displays an expression that blends confidence and coquetry.
The artist employed a vibrant color palette, primarily utilizing reds, blues, and creams to create visual interest and emphasize the figures appeal. The red background serves as a striking contrast to the cool tones of the woman’s attire, drawing immediate attention to her form. A stylized script announces Ballyhoo Calendar at the top left corner, alongside the year “1952” and a price tag indicating 50 cents.
The calendar details are integrated into the design on the right side: April 18th is prominently displayed with associated week number and day of the week in both English and German. A small emblem sits above the date, adding to the decorative elements. The text Limited edition 12 enticing eye-fuls in full color! appears at the bottom left corner, reinforcing the promotional nature of the piece.
Subtly, the work reflects prevailing cultural attitudes toward femininity during the mid-20th century. The woman’s pose and attire are indicative of a period characterized by idealized notions of beauty and an increasing emphasis on consumerism. Her playful demeanor suggests a carefree attitude, while her direct gaze establishes a connection with the viewer that is both inviting and slightly challenging. The calendar format itself underscores the objectification inherent in the image – reducing a person to a decorative element for monthly display. Overall, the piece functions as a carefully constructed advertisement designed to appeal to a specific demographic, encapsulating aspects of popular culture and gender representation of its time.