Lady Musteline

Medium: Intaglio
Dimensions: 5 1/4 inches x 5 1/2 inches (Image) 8 1/2 x 8 3/4 inches (Sheet)
Signature: Unsigned 
Artist details: American, 1984
Edition: of xxv

Recommended by Catherine (Collections Specialist / Gallery Associate):

Carrie Lingscheit’s intaglio prints explore the symbolism and subtleties of human behavior and relationships. This enchanting and somewhat absurd etching, depicting a masked woman with an armful of beloved ferrets (or some other musteline creature), inspires some curious narratives in my mind. I interpret her ferret disguise as a way of creating safety, but I wonder for whom that safety is intended. Does she wear this mask simply to help the ferrets feel safe and secure in her arms, or does her personal sense of safety also require the ferrets to stay close to her? Or, perhaps she truly sees herself as one of them. The viewer can bring their own relational narratives to their interpretation, which is one thing I love about this piece. It is a delightful invitation to explore questions around human attachment and the transformations we experience, whether forced or natural, to stay close to those we love.