Selfportrait

Before you stands Selfportrait, a captivating 1912 oil on canvas painting by Olga Rozanova. This intimate work, measuring 62 centimeters wide and 52 centimeters high, is part of the esteemed collection of the Ivanovo Regional Art Museum. nn Rozanova presents herself from the chest up, set against a deep blue backdrop. She is dressed in a dark, almost black dress, softened by a delicate lace or embroidered neckline. A striking gold necklace, featuring a large oval pendant, adds a touch of elegance. Her reddish-brown bob is partially covered by a distinctive light brown, almost ochre-colored cap or bonnet. Her expression is serious and reserved, her pale skin contrasting beautifully with the darker tones of her attire and the vibrant background. nn Flanking her figure, stylized floral motifs in bold reds and oranges, with green leaves and dark centers, punctuate the deep blue. These simplified, almost naive floral elements create a fascinating juxtaposition with the more realistic rendering of the artist's face and clothing, blending representational and abstract styles. nn The painting's limited palette—dark blues, browns, reds, oranges, and greens, accented by the gold of her jewelry—is applied thickly, giving the work a rich texture. The skillful use of light and shadow on Rozanova's face highlights her forehead and cheekbones, while shadows subtly define her eyes and facial contours. The overall effect is one of bold color and simplified forms, truly characteristic of Rozanova's unique artistic voice. The symbolic floral elements hint at a deeper connection to nature and perhaps a symbolic representation of the artist's inner self.