The minute I spotted this editorial feature in the November 1939 Ladies' Home Journal, I knew I'd pair it with an engineering engraving from a 19th century book nabbed at a library sale. Little did I know, though, it would be the perfect engraving; turn it on its side, and it looks like a plan for any one one of these bras. Yet once the two pieces came together, inspiration fled.
So, they sat on a work table for about two weeks. Then, the idea to paint the engraving pink came along and the rest went quickly from the addition of the Sears & Roebuck measuring tape (for measuring at home to mail order) to the image of the woman, er, sculpture. Thin paper washers were placed on strategic spots but they seemed forced and were replaced by inked circles that almost appear part of the originals. 9.5" x 7.5" on archival mat board.
