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I see England; I see France;

I see your Underpants

The following illustrations are intended to show questions of social construction of gender as evident in the marketing of underwear. Pay attention to the differences in gender and brand. In looking at these ads, pay careful attention to the poses of the models. It is important to note how these advertisers have inherited a language of the pose of the human body from the tradition of western art. See how the advertisers use this language.

Jockey

 

 

 

 

Prada

Victoria's Secret

 

The following ad for FCUK Fragrances is not an underwear ad, but it does raise issues about gender identity and ideas of male beauty:

Read the excerpt from Susan Bordo's book entitled the Male Body that discusses the Calvin Klein and Gucci ads.

See separate webpage for more Calvin Klein ads.

In considering the Calvin Klein and Gucci ads compare them to the following Renaissance representations of David:

Donatello, David, c. 1440?.

Michelangelo, David, 1501-4.