#07606 Uxio Souto

The drawing presents a central figure – a woman – standing prominently in the foreground. She carries a large woven basket balanced atop her head and holds another similar basket in her hands. Her posture suggests both strength and weariness; she appears grounded yet burdened by her load. The artist has rendered her with minimal detail, focusing on the essential lines of her form and clothing, which appear simple and functional.
Behind the woman stretches a coastal landscape. Several structures – likely dwellings or small businesses – line the shore, suggesting a modest settlement. A few boats are visible in the water, hinting at fishing or trade activities. The background is rendered with looser strokes than the figure, creating a sense of depth and distance. The horizon line is relatively low, emphasizing the scale of the woman relative to her environment.
The monochromatic palette, achieved through what appears to be brown ink on paper, contributes to the drawing’s somber mood. The limited tonal range emphasizes form and texture rather than coloristic effects.
Subtly, the work conveys a sense of labor and resilience. The womans position – facing directly forward – suggests dignity and an unwavering presence within her community. Her bare feet further underscore her connection to the land and her working-class status. While the scene appears tranquil on the surface, the implied toil of the central figure introduces a layer of complexity, hinting at the economic realities underpinning this coastal existence. The drawing seems less concerned with individual portraiture than it is with depicting a specific social role or archetype within a particular cultural context – that of a working woman contributing to her community’s livelihood.