“Woman’s Head in Profile,” created by Kazimir Malevich in 1912, exemplifies the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement. The artwork is rendered in pencil on paper and is considered a sketch and study. Measuring 18.6 x 14 cm, it is part of the “1st Peasant Cycle” series.
The artwork features a detailed portrayal of a woman’s head in profile view. The woman’s head is distinctly outlined and shaded with careful attention to light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and three-dimensionality. Her facial features, including the nose, lips, and eye, are meticulously detailed, demonstrating the artist’s command over pencil work. The headscarf worn by the woman is an essential element of the piece, evoking cultural and perhaps historical context. The background is minimalistic, consisting of a simple, lightly sketched frame, which ensures the focus remains on the subject’s profile. The overall composition reflects the fundamental characteristics of the Naïve Art movement, emphasizing simplicity, sincerity, and a straightforward approach to representation.