The artwork titled “Girl” was created by the artist Andre Derain in 1931. Reflecting the Neoclassicism art movement, this portrait measures 72 x 59 cm. It portrays a young girl holding what appears to be a stringed musical instrument, possibly a lute or a mandolin.
In the artwork, the subject is depicted against a dark, almost monochromatic background that dramatically contrasts with the warmer tones of her skin and the folds of her clothing. The lighting in the composition emphasizes the volume of her face and the garment, setting a contemplative mood. The girl’s gaze is directed away from the viewer, adding a sense of introspection. There is a feeling of stillness and timelessness consistent with the Neoclassical style, focusing on clarity of form, sober colors, and the idealization of the human figure. The painting shows the use of precise brushstrokes and a controlled palette, with the girl’s face and hands rendered in a detailed fashion while other elements like her clothing and the instrument she holds are depicted with less detail, allowing the focus to remain on her expression and the implied sound of the strings she might be playing.
