The artwork entitled “Portrait of Dr. Leo Eloesser” is a significant piece created by the renowned artist Frida Kahlo in 1931. This portrait was crafted using oil on masonite, embodying the characteristics of the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement. The artwork’s dimensions stand at 85.1 cm by 59.7 cm, and it holds the genre of portrait. Currently, the artwork is located at the School of Medicine in San Francisco (University of California), Los Angeles, California, United States.
In this artwork, Frida Kahlo depicts Dr. Leo Eloesser with a remarkable sense of intimacy and respect. The doctor is portrayed in a formal standing position, with his right hand resting on a slightly ajar drawer of a dark wooden table. The left corner of the artwork features a model sailboat, indicative of leisure or a metaphorical significance, which balances the composition. In contrast to the dark hues of the doctor’s suit and the rich brown of the furniture and background, the white of his shirt and the sails of the model boat introduce a visual relief that draws the viewer’s eye.
Dr. Eloesser’s expression is solemn and pensive, with a mustache sitting above his lips that are set in a straight line—suggesting a reserved but confident character. The finesse of Kahlo’s brushwork can be appreciated in the detailed rendering of his facial features and the textures of his clothing. Behind him, what appears to be a framed artwork or an ornamental piece adds a touch of personal or cultural significance to the overall portrayal. Kahlo’s skill in portraying character and emotion is evident, making this portrait not just a visual representation but a personal testament to the individual she captured on masonite.
