Woman in Balance 1927

Curator: Gaston Lachaise, born in 1882, sculpted this bronze figure titled "Woman in Balance" that we see here, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It strikes me as a powerful, almost defiant assertion of the female form, particularly balanced on what appears to be a very small part of the foot. It makes me think about women's power. Curator: The balance achieved in bronze is remarkable. The labour to cast such a complex form, the patina layered on the bronze—all speak to the craftsmanship. Editor: I'm curious about the positioning—one arm raised, leg extended—it seems to challenge societal constraints placed on women’s bodies, this idea of being ladylike and modest. Curator: Perhaps the sculpture invites us to consider how we embody ourselves within physical constraints, or what it means to hold oneself, literally and figuratively. Editor: A potent reminder of the strength required to navigate those constraints. It's quite inspiring to consider.