Untitled [seated woman with long hair and glasses] [verso] 1955 - 1967

Richard Diebenkorn sketched this seated woman with charcoal on paper. She is characterized by long hair, glasses, and the intimate gesture of holding her knees. This pose, where the figure is seated and embracing their knees, echoes across art history. We see it in ancient sculptures, medieval illuminated manuscripts, and the works of modern masters. Think of the pensiveness of this intimate posture as a mirror reflecting our shared human condition across the ages. The gesture transcends mere physical form; it embodies introspection and a turning inward. It's a visual language embedded deep within our collective consciousness, a powerful force that engages the viewer on a subconscious level. The act of embracing oneself becomes a symbol of protection and contemplation, a silent dialogue with the soul. As you stand before this drawing, consider how this ancient pose resonates within you, a testament to the cyclical nature of human expression.