Nude symbolism
A single nude figure stands, facing away. Her face is partly visible, but much of her, and the meaning of this image are shrouded in intrigue and mystery. In this black and white nude, symbolism plays a principal role.
A hairband pulls her dark hair away from the sides of her head, ensuring we see most of her profile. The pattern of the cloth is noteworthy in the otherwise sparsely populated image. The top of the frame is heavy with dark negative space (background) while the foreground is lit more brightly. Overall, the brightest areas of the composition are the edges of the body.
Although only fragments of wooden planks are visible, the unmistakable shape of a robust cross is discernible. Its scale prompts thoughts of a crucifix. The cross seems inexplicably suspended; she leans on the planks for support, yet we cannot see where the wood rests or understand why it doesn’t fall. Her arms are bent forward at the elbows, reducing their visual impact and lending visual weight to the beam. The wooden structure slants to the left, in equilibrium to the rightward tilt of her torso.
She wears high heeled shoots, laced up high on her ankles. The shoes are suede, adding to the textures of the wood and her body in the image.
Soft shadows define the musculature, spine, hips, and other structure of her back. Two dimples in her lower back accent her curvaceous form and alluring display. This black and white nude, symbolism, and interpretation are mostly left to the viewer.
