Idyllic Anachronism is one of three wall sculptures all of which use blue and white vintage tin cans from mid-20th century. Most of the tin used was from cans that contained fruit cake, cookies, or candy. The triptych highlights how women were idealized in the classic era. The Idyllic, Elysian, and Immortal Anachronism piece is part of The Deceiver and the Deceived series.
Recycled tin cans, vintage steel dollhouses, aluminum rivets. The steel is cut, folded, and riveted together.
Dimensions: 11.25" H x 11.25" W x 1.5" D
Available for purchase or exhibition.
These images of woman are inspired by classic Greek depictions as a symbol of beauty, and timeless quality. How does this relate to 20th century expectation for women? Do you realize that women were not even allowed to leave their homes in ancient times? Women were not considered intellectually equal to men (with rare exceptions.) In Athens, they were under the jurisdiction of their father or husband, not given citizenship or the right to own property. Read more about women in Ancient Greece.
Ideals of beauty from art history continued to be immortalized in every form of art, from statues to Wedgwood pottery. These images continue to be framed as beautiful, yet they ignore the severe limitations that were placed on women historically, and even today when a great deal of women’s power is contingent on her appearance.
© Harriete Estel Berman, 1995-1996, 2021