French Stockings c. 1911

Rolf Armstrong created "French Stockings," around the early 20th century, a time of shifting social mores and evolving representations of women. Armstrong was a commercial artist known for his pin-up girls, a genre deeply intertwined with notions of femininity, desire, and the male gaze. This artwork presents a nude woman, save for her hat, heels, and stockings, in a state of undress that was both alluring and controversial for the time. The image reflects the era's fascination with the female form, yet it also raises questions about the objectification of women. The "French" in the title hints at a certain exoticism and allure, playing into stereotypes and fantasies about European women. While the image may seem straightforward, it is layered with cultural meanings and speaks to the complex ways in which women were seen and represented in art and popular culture. It invites us to consider the historical context in which it was made and the ongoing dialogue about female representation and empowerment.