To: pml1@yahoogroups.com From: Mark Tomlonson Date: Fri, 12 Dec 2003 11:57:56 -0500 Subject: [PML1] CC: Sheralee Conners Photographers have always turned to classic nudes for inspiration. The strongest example I can think of among the Playboy centerfolds is Sheralee Conners' centerfold (July 1961). While not a direct copy, it is clearly inspired by and perhaps is a tribute to "Grande Odalisque" (1814) by Jean Ingres. The arms and legs are posed just a bit different, but the position of the back and the slight turn of the head are identical. Ingres may have been trying to make a social comment or two in his painting. Sheralee looks like she wants to get started on the evening's activities. Ingres' subject is set in a rich, Arabian Harem. Sheralee is in a post-war tract house bedroom, furnished in the early sixties. It's dated, but by no means unattractive. Sheralee looks great as well. I can't say if the pose or Sheralee was selected first, but they're a great match. The pose really shows off her "bubble butt". Her expression is outstanding as well, leaving no room for debate as to what's on her schedule for the next several minutes. It's an interesting comparison: the odalisque, the professional, looks so weary and Sheralee, the Girl Next Door, looks so eager. Photographers: William Crespinal, Sherman Weisburd Scoring: Pin-up: 4.0 Erotic: 3.5 Artistic: 3.5 Overall: 3.8 out of 4.0 Cyber Club Portfolio Photo I like better than the Centerfold: none http://cyber.playboy.com/members/playmates/files/1961/07/centerfold.html Grand Odalisque: http://www.artchive.com/artchive/I/ingres/ingres_grand_odalisque.jpg.html Mark Tomlonson Kalamazoo MI