#12210 Rafael Estrany (1884-1958)

The painting presents a young woman positioned centrally against a backdrop of turbulent water and distant architecture. Her posture is introspective; arms crossed tightly across her chest, she gazes downwards with a somber expression. The artist has rendered her features with a degree of simplification, emphasizing the melancholy in her eyes and the slight downturn of her mouth. A reddish-pink garment covers her torso, contrasting with the cooler tones dominating the rest of the composition. Her hair, also a shade of red, is neatly pulled back from her face, highlighting its angularity.
The background is characterized by vigorous brushstrokes that convey movement and unrest. The water appears choppy and agitated, rendered in shades of blue and white, while distant buildings are suggested through blocks of pale color, hinting at an urban or coastal setting. These structures appear somewhat detached and indistinct, contributing to a sense of isolation surrounding the figure.
The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation tinged with sadness. The woman’s closed posture and downward gaze suggest a state of inward reflection, perhaps even sorrow or resignation. The turbulent background could be interpreted as symbolic of internal turmoil or external pressures bearing down upon her. Theres an ambiguity to the scene; while the setting implies a specific location, the narrative remains open-ended, allowing for multiple interpretations regarding the woman’s emotional state and circumstances. The deliberate lack of detail in both the figure and the background encourages viewers to project their own experiences and emotions onto the work, fostering a sense of empathetic connection.