The artwork titled “Face of a Woman,” created by Francis Picabia in 1936, exemplifies the Expressionist movement. Rendered in oil on cardboard, this portrait measures 61 by 37 centimeters and currently resides in a private collection.
In the artwork, the depiction of the female face is characterized by elongated, fluid lines and bold contours, which define the features against a dark background. The use of vibrant hues, particularly the blend of light blues and yellows framing the face, juxtaposes against the deeper tones and emphasizes the emotional intensity typical of Expressionism. The minimal yet expressive portrayal evokes a sense of introspection and complexity through the stark contrasts and simplified forms. The woman’s outlined, almost abstract features evoke an enigmatic aura, drawing the viewer’s attention to her lips, subtly highlighted in a striking orange hue that stands out amid the otherwise muted palette.