Jonge vrouw met een sigaret 1823 - 1892

Antonio Zona created this watercolor titled "Young Woman with a Cigarette" sometime in the 19th century. The woman's gaze, though direct, seems to hint at a world of thoughts and experiences beyond the surface. The act of smoking, historically coded as masculine, is here embodied by a woman. This subversion invites us to consider the shifting roles and expectations of women during the 19th century. Her attire, a lace shawl, and delicate earrings, contrasts with the boldness of her smoking, challenging traditional notions of femininity. Is this a portrayal of a woman embracing newfound freedoms, or a comment on the constraints that still bind her? Zona captures a moment of introspection, inviting us to reflect on the complex interplay between individual expression and societal norms. Through this watercolor, Zona not only captures an image but also hints at the intricate layers of identity and societal expectation.