#04376 Yasumasa Morimura

The painting presents a striking juxtaposition of Renaissance portraiture and anatomical illustration. A woman, rendered in a style reminiscent of classical portraiture, sits composedly on a chair against a dark, indistinct landscape backdrop. Her expression is enigmatic, exhibiting the subtle smile characteristic of that artistic tradition. However, this conventional depiction is dramatically disrupted by the visible internal organs within her torso.
A large opening reveals a detailed anatomical cross-section, showcasing the lungs, heart, intestines, and other vital structures. Within the abdominal cavity, a fetus in an advanced stage of development is clearly displayed. The meticulous rendering of both the woman’s external features and the interior anatomy suggests a deliberate exploration of life, creation, and the human bodys complexities.
The artist seems to be engaging with themes of motherhood and gestation, but not in a sentimental or idealized manner. Instead, there is an unsettling clinical detachment present. The fetus, presented as a biological specimen rather than a symbol of hope or familial connection, contributes to this effect. This presentation challenges conventional notions of beauty and the sanctity of life, prompting reflection on the fragility and vulnerability inherent within human existence.
The dark background serves to isolate the figure, intensifying the focus on her exposed interiority. The landscape behind is vague, almost dreamlike, suggesting a detachment from reality or perhaps an allusion to the mysteries surrounding creation and reproduction. Overall, the work creates a disquieting tension between established artistic conventions and a starkly scientific perspective, inviting contemplation of the boundaries between art, science, and human perception.