#15807 Oswaldo Guayasamin

The composition presents a frontal portrait of a woman, rendered in a style characterized by angularity and simplification. The figures face is dominated by large, dark eyes that gaze upwards, conveying a sense of melancholy or introspection. A prominent nose divides the central plane of the visage, while the mouth is depicted with a subtle downward curve, suggesting sadness or resignation.
The artist employed a limited palette, primarily utilizing earth tones – ochres, browns, and creams – contrasted against stark black outlines that define the contours of the face and hair. The hair itself falls in thick, dark planes, framing the head and contributing to the overall sense of weightiness. A pale area on the left cheek introduces a subtle highlight, adding depth despite the flattened perspective.
The background is uniformly dark, which serves to isolate the figure and intensify the focus on her expression. This stark contrast amplifies the emotional impact of the portrait. The absence of any discernible setting or context further emphasizes the psychological state of the subject.
Subtly, theres a sense of fragmentation in the depiction; the face isn’t presented as a unified whole but rather as a collection of planes and angles. This technique disrupts conventional notions of beauty and realism, inviting viewers to consider the complexities of human emotion beyond surface appearances. The upward gaze, combined with the downturned mouth, suggests a longing or yearning that remains unresolved within the confines of the image. It’s possible to interpret this work as an exploration of inner turmoil or a commentary on the burdens carried by women.