Self Portrait I. Marianne von Werefkin (1860-1938)

The portrait presents a figure viewed in three-quarter profile against a swirling background of intense color. The subjects gaze is direct and unwavering, meeting the viewer with a palpable intensity that dominates the composition. A large, vibrant red hat, adorned with a cluster of pinkish-red flowers, sits atop her head, partially obscuring her dark hair. This hat serves not merely as an accessory but as a significant framing element, drawing attention to the face and contributing to the overall sense of theatricality.
The artist employed a palette characterized by bold, non-naturalistic colors. The skin tones are rendered in yellows, greens, and reds, departing from conventional depictions of human complexion. This chromatic distortion contributes to an unsettling effect, suggesting a psychological rather than purely physical representation. The background’s swirling blues and yellows further amplify this sense of emotional turbulence.
The subjects expression is complex; there is a hint of melancholy or weariness in the downturned corners of her mouth, yet her eyes possess a sharp, almost defiant quality. This duality suggests an internal conflict, a tension between vulnerability and resilience. The application of paint appears deliberate and expressive, with visible brushstrokes adding texture and dynamism to the surface.
The choice of clothing – a green garment that seems to blend into the background – further emphasizes the subject’s isolation. It is as if she exists within her own emotional landscape, separate from any external context. The overall impression is one of a person grappling with inner turmoil, presenting a carefully constructed facade while hinting at deeper complexities beneath the surface. The painting suggests an exploration of identity and self-perception, conveyed through a deliberate manipulation of color and form to evoke a specific psychological state.