Portrait of a Woman 1934

Kazimir Malevich painted this portrait of a woman, using oil on canvas, sometime in the early twentieth century. Though Malevich is best known for his abstract paintings, like 'Black Square', here he employs traditional materials and techniques of figurative painting. Look closely and you'll see the visible brushwork and layering of paint, especially in the background. Malevich applies pigment to canvas in a way that is very hands-on. This emphasis on materiality adds depth and texture to the image, reminding us of the artist's labor and skill. Malevich's early work was influenced by symbolism and impressionism, styles that were popular during his early career. While this portrait is not as radical as his later abstract works, it shares a similar concern with form and composition. Malevich's careful attention to the materiality of paint and his engagement with traditional artistic techniques ultimately bridge the gap between representational and abstract art. His unique way of working blurs the boundaries between craft and fine art.