COUWENBERGH: A Study in Power and Violence
This crewneck design presents a stark visual representation of Christiaen van Couwenbergh's controversial artwork, "Three Young White Men and a Black Woman." The artwork, originally painted in 1632, depicts a scene of profound power imbalance, centering on a Black woman struggling against the forceful actions of white men.
Visual Narrative
The core of the design features the central figures: a naked Black woman, depicted in distress and struggle, held captive by one of the white men. The composition emphasizes the woman's vulnerability and the men's dominance. A second white man stands nearby, his gaze directed at the viewer, perhaps inviting complicity. A third man, positioned to the side, seems to express shock. The scene, framed by the interior of a domestic space, highlights the unsettling dynamics of race, gender, and sexual control.
Symbolism and Meaning
The artwork serves as a potent symbol of historical power dynamics. The stark contrast between the pale skin of the white men and the dark skin of the woman underscores the racial hierarchy prevalent in the era. The depiction of sexual violence is a clear demonstration of the historical exploitation of Black bodies. The inclusion of everyday domestic elements like the chamberpot juxtaposes these moments of violence within a domestic scene, further amplifying the disturbing nature of the work.
The design forces a confrontation with the darker aspects of art history, prompting reflection on the legacy of slavery, racism, and sexual exploitation that permeated early modern European society. This garment is a conversation starter about the intersection of art, history, and the often-uncomfortable realities of the past.
Unisex Heavy-Blend Crewneck Sweatshirt
A clean, dependable crewneck engineered for everyday wear. The cotton/poly blend keeps prints bright and the fit approachable — neither too boxy nor too snug. It's the sort of sweatshirt you reach for when comfort matters.
Product Highlights
Built from a balanced cotton and polyester mix, this crewneck gives you the soft hand of cotton with the color-keeping and shape retention polyester offers. That fabric combo helps printed artwork look crisp and vibrant, wash after wash.
Practical construction details — a ribbed knit collar that holds its shape and the absence of side seams — remove common annoyances so the sweatshirt feels smooth and lasting during everyday use.
- Cotton/poly blend for softness, durability, and color retention
- Ribbed knit collar to prevent stretching and keep a neat neckline
- No side seams for a cleaner feel against the skin
- Midweight construction — warm without bulk
- Made to hold print detail and color after repeated washing
Fit & Style Notes
The cut is unisex and intended to be versatile — choose your normal size for a classic fit or size up if you prefer a relaxed, contemporary silhouette. The length and sleeve proportions are tuned for easy layering.
Style it with high-waist jeans for a clean look, throw on a lightweight coat for chilly commutes, or match with joggers for a comfortable set. Works well with bold prints or minimalist branding.
Size Guide
For best results, measure a crewneck you already own laid flat and compare the chest width and length to the chart below.
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) | Sleeve (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 20.00 | 27.00 | 33.50 |
| M | 22.01 | 28.00 | 34.50 |
| L | 24.00 | 29.00 | 35.50 |
| XL | 26.00 | 30.00 | 36.50 |
| 2XL | 28.00 | 31.00 | 37.50 |
| 3XL | 30.00 | 32.00 | 38.50 |
| 4XL | 32.00 | 33.00 | 39.50 |
| 5XL | 34.00 | 34.00 | 40.50 |
Tip: For a trendier, roomy fit, size up one. For layering under a jacket, stick to your usual size.
Care Instructions
- Machine wash cold (max 30°C / 90°F)
- Use non-chlorine bleach only when necessary
- Do not dry clean
- Tumble dry on low heat
- Do not iron
