The artwork “Untitled #198,” a piece created in 1989 by artist Cindy Sherman, is part of the “History Portraits” series from 1988 to 1990 and belongs to the Feminist Art movement. Noted for its photographic genre, the artist’s work explores themes of identity, representation, and the role of women in historical and cultural contexts.
In the artwork, a figure is depicted wearing an elaborate and somewhat surreal costume, featuring a white, voluminous headpiece that envelops the face, leaving only the eyes visible through a black mask. The background is a luxurious gold fabric, rich with intricate patterns and textures, which adds a sense of opulence to the composition. The attire further includes a yellowish, semi-transparent garment with detailed trims and an ornate pendant against the chest. The figure’s enigmatic and theatrical presentation challenges traditional depictions of women in art, inviting viewers to question the constructs of femininity and historical representation.
