Entitled “Itzcuintli Dog with Me,” this artwork is a self-portrait by Frida Kahlo, created in 1938. The medium used is oil on canvas, and the piece measures 71 by 52 centimeters. It belongs to the Naïve Art movement, specifically classified under Primitivism, and is currently held in a private collection. The genre of this piece is a self-portrait, a common theme for Kahlo.
The artwork exudes an intimate atmosphere, depicting Frida Kahlo seated on a bench with a poised demeanor. She is clad in a traditional Mexican attire that includes a lavish blouse and skirt, her gaze meeting the viewer with a mixture of serenity and intensity. Her iconic unibrow and hairstyle, arranged in tight braids adorned with ribbon, highlight her cultural heritage and personal style. The title’s Itzcuintli dog, a small indigenous Mexican breed known for its significance in pre-Columbian history, is positioned near her feet, looking out towards the viewer with a stance that suggests loyalty and companionship. The figure of Kahlo is centralized against a subdued and minimalistic background, which helps to emphasize her figure and the accompanying dog. The portrayal is indicative of Kahlo’s deep connection with her Mexican roots and her frequent inclusion of personal motifs and symbology within her art.
