The artwork, titled “Portrait of Diego Rivera,” is a work by the renowned artist Frida Kahlo, dated to 1937. Executed in the medium of oil on wood, the piece is a prime example of Naïve Art (Primitivism), measuring 46 cm by 32 cm. This portrait genre piece is part of the Jacques and Natasha Gelman Collection, housed in Mexico City, Mexico.
The artwork is a striking depiction of the Mexican muralist Diego Rivera, who was both Kahlo’s husband and a prominent figure in Mexican modern art. The painting features Rivera’s head and upper torso against a neutral backdrop. His hairstyle is neatly arranged, indicative of the period’s fashion. Rivera’s face is rendered with a sense of realism, highlighting his prominent features including his broad nose, full lips, and attentive eyes, which gaze directly at the viewer, creating a feeling of engagement.
Kahlo’s brushwork conveys subtle textures, from the faint stubble on Rivera’s face to the soft fabric of his clothing, demonstrating her meticulous attention to detail. The choice of a simple composition and the subdued color palette allows the viewer to focus solely on the subject’s expression and presence. The artwork reflects Kahlo’s deep affection for Rivera while capturing his persona with a combination of intimacy and respectful distance.