Grigory Gluckmann – Pigtails Sotheby’s

The composition presents a female figure viewed from behind, seated on what appears to be a draped surface. The artist has chosen to depict her nude, focusing primarily on the contours and textures of her body. Her posture suggests a moment of introspection or quiet contemplation; she leans forward slightly, her head turned over her shoulder, as if listening for something beyond the viewer’s perspective.
The application of paint is characterized by loose brushstrokes and a muted palette dominated by earthy tones – ochres, creams, and browns – which contribute to an overall sense of softness and intimacy. The surface appears deliberately textured, with visible impasto that creates a tactile quality and obscures precise detail. This technique lends the figure a certain ambiguity; her form is suggested rather than explicitly defined, allowing for individual interpretation.
The lighting is diffused and indirect, casting subtle shadows that model the curves of her body without creating harsh contrasts. The background dissolves into an indistinct haze, further emphasizing the isolation of the subject. A small detail – ornamental hairpieces nestled within her dark hair – provides a touch of decorative elegance against the otherwise naturalistic portrayal.
Subtly, theres a sense of vulnerability conveyed through the figure’s posture and the artist’s choice to depict her in this exposed state. The lack of direct eye contact with the viewer fosters an atmosphere of privacy, inviting a quiet observation rather than a confrontational gaze. The draped fabric at her feet hints at a transition – perhaps from bath to dressing, or from one state of being to another – suggesting a fleeting moment captured in time.