The artwork titled “Head of a Woman in Red” is an oil on canvas painting by the renowned artist Pierre-Auguste Renoir, dating from approximately 1909. As an exemplar of the Impressionist movement, this portrait is notable for its brushwork and color palette, which contribute to the distinctive Impressionist style. Currently, it resides within a private collection, away from public exhibition.
The artwork depicts the profile of a woman set against an indistinct background which blends into her form, drawing focus to her features. Renoir’s brushstrokes are visible and fluid, capturing the softness of the woman’s skin and the texture of her attire with a vivid red hue standing out prominently. The woman’s head is tilted slightly downwards, giving a contemplative or introspective appearance. Her facial features are portrayed with a delicate touch, and there’s a notable harmony within the composition between the warmth of her red garment and the cooler, diffuse background. Renoir’s use of light subtly models the woman’s face, highlighting her cheek and the contour of her nose while shadow gently defines her profile. The painting exemplifies the characteristic Impressionist concern with light, color, and the representation of immediate visual perceptions.
