The Red Scarf 1919

Ipolit Strambu painted this oil, titled 'The Red Scarf', with clear affection. The marks here are soft and rounded, suggestive of something gentle and enveloping. It's all about how you lay it down, right? The paint handling feels very deliberate but also intuitive. I love how the red of the scarf is almost vibrating, with those little flecks of yellow and orange peeking through. Notice how some parts are really built up with thick paint, like around the folds of the scarf, while other areas are more transparent. That contrast gives the painting a real sense of depth and texture. The way the scarf frames the woman's face, and the little red flowers scattered around it, are just wonderful. It reminds me a little of Paula Modersohn-Becker's portraits, that same earthy, intimate quality, but with a warmer palette. Ultimately, it's a painting that invites you to slow down and just be present with it.