Two Moroccan women Zinaida Serebryakova (1884-1967)

The drawing presents two seated figures, presumably women, within a vaguely defined outdoor setting. The composition is dominated by their presence; they occupy nearly the entire frame and are positioned close to the viewer, creating a sense of immediacy. Both individuals are dressed in traditional attire – loose-fitting garments rendered in muted tones of blue, yellow, and green – and each wears head coverings that partially obscure their hair.
The artist employed a pastel technique, evident in the visible strokes and layered application of color. This approach lends a softness to the rendering while also maintaining a degree of sketchiness, suggesting an emphasis on capturing essence rather than precise detail. The background is minimally defined; hints of foliage are suggested through quick, gestural marks, but remain indistinct, serving primarily as a backdrop that highlights the figures themselves.
A notable characteristic is the differing gazes of the two women. One looks directly outward, her expression appearing somewhat guarded or contemplative. The other woman’s gaze is averted downwards, suggesting introspection or perhaps shyness. This contrast in direction and implied emotional state introduces an element of narrative ambiguity; it invites speculation about their relationship – are they engaged in a private conversation, lost in individual thoughts, or simply sharing a moment of quiet companionship?
The exposed feet of the woman on the right contribute to the sense of informality and authenticity. The lack of elaborate ornamentation further reinforces this impression, suggesting a focus on portraying everyday life rather than idealized beauty.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of identity, tradition, and perhaps even the complexities of female relationships within a specific cultural context. While the setting remains ambiguous, the clothing and head coverings strongly suggest a North African origin. The artist’s choice to depict these women in a relatively unidealized manner – with their individual expressions and physical characteristics clearly visible – implies an interest in portraying them as individuals with depth and complexity, rather than simply as representatives of a particular ethnicity or culture.