Black Woman with an Orange (1923) Nikolay Feshin (1881-1955)

The composition presents a portrait of a woman with dark skin, rendered in a style characterized by visible brushstrokes and a rich, earthy palette. She is positioned centrally within the frame, her gaze directed upwards and slightly off-center, conveying an impression of introspection or perhaps quiet defiance. The artist employed a limited range of colors – ochres, browns, reds, and touches of purple and blue – to create a sense of warmth and depth.
The woman’s hair is tightly coiled, framing a face marked by strong features. Her expression is difficult to decipher definitively; it might suggest melancholy or simply a contemplative stillness. She holds an orange in her hands, the fruit serving as a focal point due to its vibrant color and smooth texture contrasting with the rougher application of paint elsewhere. The orange’s placement – held close to the chest – suggests a sense of possession or perhaps even protection.
The background is indistinct, composed of blurred shapes and planes that suggest an interior space. A window is discernible on the right side, allowing for a glimpse of what appears to be an exterior landscape rendered in muted tones. This inclusion introduces a subtle element of duality – the woman’s presence within a defined space juxtaposed with a suggestion of broader horizons beyond.
The paintings subtexts are layered and open to interpretation. The choice of subject matter – a Black woman – in this period carries significant weight, potentially challenging prevailing societal norms and representations. The orange itself could be interpreted as a symbol of vitality, abundance, or even cultural heritage. The overall effect is one of quiet dignity and resilience, inviting the viewer to consider themes of identity, representation, and the complexities of human experience. The artist’s technique – the loose brushwork and muted color scheme – contributes to an atmosphere that feels both intimate and slightly melancholic.