#24752 Josep-Maria Mallol Suazo

The drawing presents a seated female figure rendered in pastel. The subject is positioned centrally within the frame, facing forward with a direct gaze that holds a certain solemnity. Her posture suggests introspection; her hands are clasped gently in front of her, contributing to an overall impression of quiet contemplation.
Here we see a vibrant red shawl draped across her shoulders and partially concealing her body. The application of pastel is particularly evident in the shawl, where strokes create texture and movement, contrasting with the softer rendering of the face and upper torso. The color choice for the shawl introduces a note of warmth and perhaps even passion against the muted tones of the background and skin.
The artist employed a loose, expressive style, prioritizing gesture and feeling over precise detail. Facial features are suggested rather than meticulously defined, lending an air of universality to the subject. The hair is depicted with swirling strokes that echo the movement in the shawl, unifying the composition.
Subtly, there’s a sense of vulnerability conveyed through the figures posture and expression. While her gaze is direct, it lacks assertiveness; instead, it seems to invite empathy or understanding. The partial concealment offered by the shawl could be interpreted as a symbolic representation of hidden emotions or a desire for protection.
The background appears indistinct, almost dissolving into the surrounding space, which further emphasizes the figures isolation and draws attention to her internal state. The signature in the lower right corner is rendered in a similar style to the rest of the drawing, maintaining the overall aesthetic consistency.