Head of a Woman with a Blue Necklace

Paul Kleinschmidt

Created:
Movement:
1932
Expressionism
key Notes:
Expressionist portrait, vibrant color palette
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Dimensions:
48.6 × 37.2 cm (19 3/16 × 14 11/16 in.)
medium:
Watercolor, over graphite, on cream wove paper
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Head of a Woman with a Blue Necklace" is a painting by German artist Paul Kleinschmidt, who was active during the early to mid-20th century. The work exemplifies Kleinschmidt's focus on portraiture, characterized by a distinctive use of color and form. The painting features a female subject adorned with a blue necklace, which serves as a focal point and enhances the overall composition. Kleinschmidt's style reflects influences from Expressionism, evident in the emotive quality of the subject's portrayal. The exact date of creation remains unknown, but it is situated within the broader context of early 20th-century European art movements. Kleinschmidt's oeuvre is noted for its exploration of identity and the human condition, often through the lens of personal and cultural narratives. The painting is part of a larger body of work that contributes to the understanding of portraiture during this period.

Description of the work:

"Head of a Woman with a Blue Necklace" by Paul Kleinschmidt features a portrait of a female figure rendered in watercolor over graphite on cream wove paper. The composition emphasizes the subject's head and shoulders, with a focus on her facial features, which are delicately outlined in graphite. The use of watercolor creates a soft, fluid quality, allowing for subtle gradations of color that enhance the three-dimensionality of the face. The woman's expression is serene, characterized by gentle contours and a harmonious palette. The blue necklace is a prominent element, contrasting with the warm tones of the skin and the neutral background, drawing attention to the subject's neckline. The overall composition is balanced, with a careful arrangement of light and shadow that contributes to the depth of the portrait. The choice of materials, particularly the combination of watercolor and graphite, allows for a nuanced exploration of texture and form.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Head of a Woman with a Blue Necklace