“The Virtuous Woman” is a symbolic painting created by Harmonia Rosales in 2017. This work is part of the postcolonial and feminist art movements and belongs to the B.I.T.C.H. Black Imaginary To Counter Hegemony series of 2017.
The artwork features a woman depicted in a manner reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man, emphasizing symmetry and proportion. The figure is situated within a circle and square, echoing da Vinci’s iconic work. The woman stands confidently with arms and legs extended, showcasing a blend of strength and poise. The background of the artwork contains script-like text and organic, almost burnt, patches, lending an aged, historical appearance to the piece. This combination of elements underscores themes of empowerment, cultural rewriting, and the reclaiming of historical narratives through a feminist and postcolonial lens.
