Memory of a pain (Portrait of Santina Negri) 1889

"Memory of a Pain (Portrait of Santina Negri)" is a realistic oil painting by Italian artist Pellizza da Volpedo, completed in 1889. The portrait depicts Santina Negri, the artist's muse and companion, seated with a book in her lap. Her melancholic expression and the title of the painting suggest a sense of inner turmoil and a reflection on the past. The painting's muted colors and the soft lighting contribute to the mood of contemplation and melancholy. Pellizza da Volpedo's use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and realism, highlighting the subject's features and the emotional weight she carries. The painting offers a glimpse into the artist's intimate relationship with his muse and a powerful portrait of female introspection.