p-hf-bb16 #130 Harrison Fisher

The artwork presents a portrait study, cropped tightly around the subjects head and shoulders. The woman is depicted in profile, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a subtle, almost challenging expression. Her features are rendered with a delicate precision; the lips are slightly parted, hinting at an unspoken invitation or perhaps a playful defiance.
The most striking element of the composition is undoubtedly the elaborate hairstyle. A cascade of auburn curls frames her face, meticulously detailed to capture both volume and texture. The artist employed a loose, painterly technique in rendering the hair, using short, broken brushstrokes that suggest movement and light reflecting off individual strands. This contrasts with the smoother application of paint used for the skin tones, creating a visual hierarchy where the hair commands immediate attention.
The background is an undifferentiated dark tone, which serves to isolate the subject and intensify her presence. The limited palette – primarily consisting of warm browns, reds, and creams – contributes to a sense of intimacy and refinement.
A signature appears in the lower left corner, rendered in a flowing script that adds a personal touch to the work. Beneath the image, text indicates this is numbered #14 (If You Want a Kiss) and notes its absence from certain published editions. This textual element suggests the portrait might be associated with a larger narrative or collection, potentially hinting at themes of desire, longing, or perhaps a playful negotiation of intimacy. The cropped format and focus on the head suggest an emphasis on personality and allure over complete representation.