Autoportrait au petit singe Frida Kahlo (1907-1954)

The portrait presents a frontal depiction of a woman against a muted lilac background punctuated by golden, ribbon-like forms that seem to emanate from behind her head and shoulders. The subjects gaze is direct and unwavering, conveying a sense of self-assuredness and perhaps even challenge. Her dark hair is styled in an elaborate arrangement, secured with a vibrant red band. A white collar peeks out from beneath a dark garment, suggesting a deliberate formality.
Flanking the woman are two animal companions: a small monkey clinging to her left shoulder and a hairless dog nestled at her feet. The monkey’s expression is earnest, its eyes fixed on the viewer with an almost unsettling intensity. The dog, similarly devoid of fur, appears loyal and protective, its posture suggesting a close bond with the woman.
The artist has included a decorative cartouche in the upper right corner, bearing a signature and date. This element serves to anchor the work within a specific time frame while also asserting authorship.
Several layers of meaning can be discerned from this composition. The inclusion of animals is significant; monkeys often symbolize fertility, sexuality, or even mimicry, while dogs frequently represent loyalty and companionship. Their presence alongside the woman suggests a complex interplay between personal identity, desire, and emotional support.
The golden ribbons could be interpreted as symbols of vitality or perhaps allusions to spiritual connections. The overall effect is one of controlled strength and deliberate symbolism, hinting at an individual grappling with themes of self-representation, vulnerability, and the search for connection in a world that may feel isolating. The direct gaze and carefully constructed imagery suggest a conscious effort to define oneself on ones own terms.