Still Life (with a female head). 1921 Kuzma Sergeevich Petrov-Vodkin (1878-1939)

The composition presents a still life arrangement dominated by a muted color palette and a sense of quiet introspection. A female head, rendered in soft, almost chalky tones, occupies the lower left quadrant. The figure is draped in what appears to be a loosely wrapped cloth or turban, obscuring much of her hair and emphasizing the contours of her face. Her gaze is directed downwards, conveying an impression of melancholy or contemplation.
Adjacent to the head, a vase brimming with wildflowers rises as a focal point. These blooms – primarily blue and white daisies interspersed with other smaller blossoms – introduce a touch of vibrancy against the predominantly subdued background. The flowers are densely packed within the dark green vase, which sits upon a folded cloth that mirrors the texture and color of the figure’s head covering.
The backdrop is divided into two distinct zones. A broad expanse of reddish-orange forms the immediate background, while a paler area suggests an opening or window revealing a hazy landscape beyond. This distant view appears indistinct, lacking sharp detail, which contributes to the overall feeling of detachment and interiority. Several sheets of paper are scattered near the base of the composition, their surfaces bearing faint markings that remain largely illegible.
The arrangement feels deliberately staged, with objects positioned in relation to one another not necessarily dictated by naturalistic principles. The interplay between the organic forms of the flowers and the geometric shapes of the draped cloth and architectural elements creates a visual tension. Subtly, there is an exploration of themes related to fragility, memory, and perhaps even loss. The muted tones and introspective pose of the figure suggest a sense of quiet sorrow or resignation, while the presence of the wildflowers hints at a lingering hope or beauty amidst melancholy. The scattered papers might symbolize fragmented thoughts or unfinished narratives. Overall, the painting evokes a mood of restrained emotion and contemplative stillness.