In this 18th-century-looking scene, we see a red-headed woman in a tangerine-coloured silk dress enthusiastically arm wrestling with a man in a mustard-yellow coat. Her head is thrown back with laughter - she is visibly enjoying her victory. The man looks focused, tense, but not bitter. Behind them, soft candlelight illuminates the wooden tables and crystal chandeliers. The warm glow gives the work an almost tangible vibrancy. A small detail you might not see until later: their hands do not touch hard, but with a certain tenderness - strength and connection in one moment.
This work was inspired by my fascination with how women have been depicted over the centuries: often beautiful, rarely strong. I wanted to create that moment that would never have been captured in the 18th century - a woman winning, smiling, and not holding herself back.
The mood is warm, humorous and liberating. It is an ode to female strength, to pleasure and equality.
In an interior, this work brings character, a smile and a touch of rebellion - a subtle conversation between history and modern self-awareness.
Created by Marjolein Overbeek with support from AI.
I am Marjolein, storyteller with a weakness for the 18th century and for women who claim their place. My work always centres on a strong, independent woman - sometimes elegant, sometimes rebellious, but never boring. I cannot paint, but with words I paint images that.. Read more…