#17537 Miquel Rivera Bagur

The composition presents a portrait of an elderly individual, rendered in a palette dominated by dark browns, blacks, and muted greens. The subject is positioned centrally within the frame, facing forward with a direct gaze that conveys both weariness and quiet dignity. A thick veil or shawl obscures much of the hair and upper chest, its folds painted with vigorous brushstrokes that contribute to the overall textural density.
The artist employed a technique characterized by visible impasto; the paint is applied thickly, creating a palpable surface relief that emphasizes the materiality of the work. This approach lends a sense of immediacy and rawness to the depiction, moving beyond mere representation towards an exploration of form and texture. The lighting is dramatic, with a single source illuminating the face from above and slightly to the left, casting deep shadows across the features and intensifying the impression of age and hardship.
The subject’s expression is complex; theres a palpable sadness evident in the downturned mouth and the lines etched around the eyes. However, this melancholy isnt presented as despair but rather as an acceptance of life’s burdens. The hands are prominent, one holding the edge of the veil, the other resting near the body – gestures that suggest introspection and perhaps a sense of vulnerability.
Subtextually, the painting seems to engage with themes of aging, resilience, and the dignity of marginalized individuals. The somber color scheme and the subject’s direct gaze evoke a feeling of solemnity and invite contemplation on the passage of time and the experiences that shape human character. Theres an underlying sense of empathy conveyed through the artist’s treatment of the subject; it is not merely a portrait but a testament to the enduring spirit of someone who has lived a full life, marked by both joy and sorrow. The rough application of paint could be interpreted as a visual metaphor for the hardships endured, while the directness of the gaze suggests an unwavering strength.