Girl from Bali (1938) Nikolay Feshin (1881-1955)

Here we observe a portrait study focusing on a young womans profile. The composition is tightly cropped, emphasizing her face and upper shoulders against a relatively plain background. Her skin tone is rendered in rich, dark browns and ochres, punctuated by subtle highlights that suggest the play of light across her features. The artist employed thick impasto brushstrokes throughout, creating a textured surface that adds depth and vitality to the depiction.
The woman’s gaze is directed upwards and slightly to the left, conveying a sense of introspection or perhaps distant observation. Her mouth is partially open, hinting at an unspoken thought or emotion. A decorative element – likely a floral adornment – is visible in her hair, introducing a touch of color and cultural specificity with its yellow and purple hues. The treatment of the hair itself is noteworthy; it’s rendered with loose, energetic strokes that suggest both volume and movement.
The background appears to be deliberately understated, consisting primarily of muted whites and grays, which serve to isolate the figure and direct attention towards her face. A few visible brushstrokes in purple add a subtle complexity to the backdrop, preventing it from becoming entirely neutral.
Subtly, there’s an air of quiet dignity about the subject. The artist seems less interested in detailed realism than in capturing a sense of character and presence. The loose application of paint lends a spontaneity to the work, suggesting that this is a study undertaken with immediacy and feeling. Its possible to interpret the portrait as an exploration of identity – a moment captured from a culture distinct from the artist’s own, presented with respect and sensitivity.