Seated Female with Hands Clasped in Lap 

Mark Rothko created "Seated Female with Hands Clasped in Lap" using graphite on paper. Emerging from the shadow of the Depression era, his early works often navigated the complex terrain of human emotion and social reality. Here, we see a lone figure of a seated woman, rendered with a sense of vulnerability. Her clasped hands and slightly downcast gaze suggest a moment of contemplation, perhaps even introspection. Rothko's choice of subject reflects a broader interest in the human condition, a theme prevalent among artists grappling with the socio-economic upheavals of the time. The identity of the sitter remains unknown, inviting us to project our own experiences and emotions onto her. It’s easy to imagine how the austerity of the medium echoes the lived experiences of many women during that era. Rothko doesn't offer a glamorous portrayal but rather captures a sense of quiet resilience. The work is not simply a representation but an encounter with a shared humanity.