#14912 Pere Daura

The portrait presents a woman viewed in a three-quarter pose, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a palpable sense of introspection. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing the subjects elongated features and contributing to a feeling of solemnity.
Here we see an intentional departure from conventional realism. Facial features are simplified, almost stylized; the nose is prominent and angular, while the eyes possess a heavy-lidded quality that suggests weariness or melancholy. The mouth is rendered with minimal detail, hinting at suppressed emotion. A flush of reddish-orange color dominates the cheeks and forehead, creating an unsettling contrast against the muted tones of the hair and clothing.
The artist employed a visible brushstroke technique, applying paint in thick, textured layers. This impasto style lends a tactile quality to the work and contributes to its overall expressive power. The background is indistinct, composed of dark, swirling shapes that seem to envelop the figure, isolating her within an ambiguous space. Hints of yellow and brown are discernible within this backdrop, adding visual complexity without providing concrete context.
The woman’s attire consists of a dark blue garment layered beneath a white collar or scarf. The fabric appears heavy and somewhat ill-fitting, further contributing to the impression of constraint or discomfort. Her hair is depicted as a mass of dark strands, falling loosely around her face and shoulders.
Subtly, the painting conveys an atmosphere of psychological tension. The subject’s expression suggests inner turmoil, perhaps reflecting feelings of sadness, resignation, or quiet defiance. The deliberate distortion of features and the use of unconventional color combinations amplify this sense of emotional complexity. It is not a portrait intended to celebrate beauty in a traditional sense; rather, it seems to explore themes of vulnerability, resilience, and the weight of unspoken experiences.