My Slave Women ... G

[GoatJr]

 

[bobinder]

At first sight, this image appears quite dark, but this is due to the pronounced vignette effect, with darkened edges surrounding a bright centre. We can observe plenty of contrast and fine detail in the figures, the Moorish clothing, the whip and chains, and the background. The males' intentions are clear, and the nude female's expression anticipates her impending distress.

The scratches and abrasions over the picture surface are consistent with the signs of aging on an old plate glass negative. There are faint hints of colour, but otherwise the scene is presented in sepiatone, which together with the vignette and signs of damage, gives the impression of an authentic photograph.

Art imitates photography - the scratches and abrasions, which have been transferred to the print, predict the marks to be inflicted on the subject of 'Femme Fouettee'. As an Orientalist record of slavery, the scene presents a powerful atmosphere of foreboding and tension - nice work, GoatJr.