The artwork “Self-Portrait with Monkey” was created by artist Frida Kahlo in 1938. This self-portrait is an oil on masonite painting that measures 40.6 by 30.5 cm. It is a representation of Naïve Art, specifically Primitivism, and is part of the collection at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery located in Buffalo, NY, US.
The artwork features Frida Kahlo as the central figure with a penetrating gaze directed outward, asserting her presence and identity. Her signature eyebrows are prominently joined, and her hair is styled in an intricate updo. To her left, a small monkey can be seen, which is a common motif in Kahlo’s work, often symbolizing companionship and a surrogate for children she could not have. Additionally, a pre-Columbian necklace adorns her neck, further reinforcing her connection to her Mexican heritage. The backdrop consists of lush greenery, complementing the organic and personal themes of the self-portrait. Overall, the composition conveys a sense of stoic intimacy and reflects Kahlo’s tendency to incorporate elements of her life and cultural identity into her art.
