Untitled [woman reading] 1955 - 1967

Richard Diebenkorn sketched this woman reading, her face resting on her hand, in the 20th century. This posture is one we recognize across centuries. Consider the ancient philosophers, often depicted with a similar gesture, a hand supporting the head, embodying contemplation. But here, the scene is domestic, a book and a cup of tea suggest a moment of quiet introspection. This simple setting belies a deeper connection to the past, a motif transcending time. The act of reading itself is a potent symbol. From illuminated manuscripts to modern novels, the open book represents knowledge, enlightenment, and escape. But it's the gesture of the hand to the face that strikes a chord within us. It speaks of thought, of being lost in one's inner world, a universal experience that resonates regardless of era. It reminds me of melancholia, a deeply human condition reflected across artistic expression throughout history. Thus, the sketch becomes more than a simple study; it is an echo of ages past, a reminder of our shared humanity and the timeless quest for meaning.