“Self-Portrait Dedicated to Irene Rich,” an artwork by Diego Rivera, crafted in 1941, employs oil on canvas as its medium. Reflecting the Social Realism movement, the dimensions of this self-portrait are 61 by 43 centimeters. This piece is presently housed in the Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) located in Northampton, Massachusetts, US.
The artwork depicts the artist himself, Diego Rivera, with a keen attention to detail and a realistic portrayal reflective of the Social Realism genre. Rivera is captured from the shoulders up, wearing glasses and a red shirt beneath a brown jacket. His expression is thoughtful and contemplative, engaging directly with the viewer. In his hands, he holds a handwritten note, partially folded and inscribed clearly, adding a personal element to the work. The background features a muted yellow tone, which contrasts with the earthier hues of Rivera’s attire. The overall composition and color palette emphasize the introspective nature of the self-portrait, drawing attention to Rivera’s facial features and the significance of the handwritten message.
