Avigdor Arikha 147 Avigdor Arikha

The composition presents a female figure viewed in a mirror, occupying nearly the entire vertical space of the canvas. The subject is positioned with her back facing the viewer, yet simultaneously revealed through the reflection. Her posture suggests a moment of self-scrutiny; she appears to be adjusting or examining her hair, her hand raised towards the nape of her neck.
The artist’s handling of light and color contributes significantly to the works mood. The skin tones are rendered with a muted palette, ranging from pale pinks and yellows to subtle browns and ochres. This restrained use of color emphasizes the form rather than relying on vibrant hues for visual impact. A cool, grey-blue wall serves as a backdrop, creating a sense of detachment and isolation. The mirror itself is depicted with a degree of distortion, softening its edges and contributing to an overall feeling of ambiguity.
The composition’s subtexts revolve around themes of self-perception, identity, and the complexities of representation. The mirrored image introduces a duality – the figure as she sees herself versus how she might be perceived by others. This creates a sense of distance between the subject and her own body, hinting at an internal dialogue or perhaps even a degree of alienation.
The deliberate lack of detail in the background further concentrates attention on the figure and her interaction with the mirror. The simplicity of the setting reinforces the introspective nature of the scene, suggesting that this is not merely a depiction of physical appearance but rather an exploration of inner consciousness. The work invites contemplation about the subjective experience of selfhood and the role of external reflection in shaping our understanding of who we are.