“A Gypsy Fortune Teller” is an exquisite watercolor painting on paper created by the celebrated artist Taras Shevchenko in 1841. This notable piece, measuring 26.5 by 20.7 centimeters, belongs to the Romanticism art movement and is classified under the genre of genre painting. The artwork currently resides in the Shevchenko National Museum in Kyiv, Ukraine.
The painting depicts an evocative scene featuring a gypsy woman practicing fortune-telling. The foreground is dominated by the fortune teller, who interacts with a woman, gazing intently and offering a hand, indicative of the fortune-telling act. The woman, adorned in a white blouse and bright orange skirt, holds a red pouch. A young child, draped over the gypsy woman’s shoulder, curiously observes the proceedings. In the lower foreground, a dog looks up attentively, adding a further layer of narrative to the scene. The background portrays lush foliage and dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, enhancing the natural and mystical ambiance of the setting. The use of vibrant colors and intricate details encapsulates the essence of the Romanticism movement, reflecting a deep engagement with emotion and folk culture.
