Louise Bourgeois' "Maisons Fragiles" (Fragile Houses), created in 1978, embodies a complex interplay between strength and vulnerability, both in its physical structure and the thematic underpinnings it represents. This work consists of steel sculptures that, at first glance, give the impression of fragility, resembling precariously balanced structures that evoke the silhouette of empty houses. However, a closer inspection reveals a hidden robustness within the steel construction, suggesting a deeper commentary on the solitude and underlying resilience within domestic life​ (Dia Art Foundation)​.

"Maisons Fragiles" is not merely an architectural form but serves as a metaphor for the human condition, specifically the dialectical tension between interiority and exteriority. Bourgeois uses the physical parameters of a house—its legs suggesting the boundaries of a home—while the empty interiors speak to the solitude inherent in domestic spaces. This work compellingly articulates Bourgeois' exploration of personal themes, drawing from her childhood experiences to confront and navigate the fragile psychology of her past. The empty spaces within the sculptures can be seen as a reflection on the voids within one's psyche, pointing to the solitude and isolation that can exist within the seemingly secure confines of a home​ (Artlyst)​.

In a broader exhibition context, "Maisons Fragiles" was part of a group exhibition at Hauser & Wirth London, which delved into themes of fragility, vulnerability, and protection through the works of nine artists spanning 60 years of artistic practice. The inclusion of "Maisons Fragiles" alongside other works exploring materiality, space, and the human condition underscores the enduring relevance and complexity of Bourgeois' sculptures, situating them within a wider dialogue about the nature of fragility and resilience in both a physical and psychological sense​ (Artlyst)​.

Through "Maisons Fragiles," Louise Bourgeois offers a profound exploration of the interplay between the physical and psychological realms, encapsulating themes of vulnerability, strength, and the human experience within the architectural metaphor of a house. This work remains a poignant commentary on the complexities of human nature and the intricacies of personal and collective experiences of space, solitude, and identity.