“Portrait of a Woman” is a notable work by Chaim Soutine, created circa 1940. Executed in oil on canvas, this piece stands as a poignant example of the Expressionism art movement. As a portrait, it captures the essence and emotion of its subject with the passionate brushstrokes and vivid colors characteristic of the genre. Currently held in a private collection, this artwork remains an exemplary representation of Soutine’s contribution to early 20th-century art.
The artwork features a woman’s visage dominated by intense, contrasting hues and a dynamic application of paint, resulting in an emotive and somewhat distorted representation. The background blends seamlessly with the figure, rendered in a mélange of earthy tones that complement the subject’s dark hair and shadowed features. The woman’s eyes, deeply set and dark, convey an introspective gaze, while her pronounced red lips add a striking focal point. Soutine’s vigorous brushwork is evident throughout, infusing the portrait with a sense of movement and vitality that transcends conventional realism.