#45520 Cayetano De Arquer-Buigas

The painting presents a three-quarter view of a woman in profile, her gaze directed towards something beyond the viewers perspective. The composition is dominated by her dark hair, styled in a somewhat disheveled manner and partially obscuring her face. A vibrant red flower is pinned to her shoulder, providing a striking contrast against the darker tones of her attire and skin.
The woman’s clothing appears to be a low-cut garment, possibly silk or a similar fabric, which drapes loosely over her shoulders and upper torso. The texture of the material is suggested through visible brushstrokes, adding depth and visual interest. Her skin tone exhibits subtle variations in color, hinting at light reflecting off its surface.
The background is rendered with broad, indistinct strokes of gray and blue, creating a sense of atmospheric perspective and minimizing distraction from the central figure. The lack of detail in the backdrop contributes to an overall feeling of intimacy and focus on the woman’s presence.
Subtly, the painting conveys a mood of quiet contemplation or perhaps melancholy. Her posture suggests introspection; she seems lost in thought. The single red flower could symbolize passion, beauty, or even a fleeting moment of joy amidst a more somber emotional state. It acts as a focal point, drawing attention to her vulnerability and inner world.
The artist’s technique emphasizes the immediacy of observation, with visible brushwork contributing to a sense of spontaneity and capturing a momentary glimpse into the subjects life. The overall effect is one of understated elegance and psychological depth.