Seated Woman Reading a Book [recto] 

Mark Rothko created this sketch, "Seated Woman Reading a Book," using graphite on paper. Rothko, born in Russia and later an American citizen, began his career making figurative works during a time when social realism was prominent. This drawing offers insight into the domestic sphere and the role of women, a common theme for artists navigating the interwar period. The sketch captures a woman in a private moment of intellectual engagement. Her posture – relaxed yet attentive – emphasizes the interiority of the subject. Rothko’s choice to depict a woman reading suggests a narrative of self-education and empowerment, diverging from more traditional depictions of women. Even in this early work, we see Rothko's interest in capturing emotional states, a theme he would famously explore in his abstract expressionist paintings. Consider how this intimate portrayal of a woman connects to broader discussions about identity, knowledge, and the representation of women in art.