Ernst Neizvestny (Russian, 1926–2016) — Female Torso
Ink and watercolor on paper, mounted on mat
Signed by the artist in Cyrillic (upper right)
42 × 30 cm (16 9/16 × 11 13/16 in), unframed
Provenance:
Acquired directly from the artist
Private collection, Italy
Bonhams, Paris
In Female Torso, Ernst Neizvestny presents a striking vision of the human body as a vessel of tension, strength, and psychological depth. The muscular female form, painted in deep black tones with vivid pink accents highlighting each tendon and contour, appears almost sculptural in its intensity. One arm extends forward, reaching beyond the edge of the composition, while the other is pulled back over the head, clenched into a fist and directed toward the first — an embodiment of conflict, direction, and force.
Executed in ink and watercolor and signed by the artist in Cyrillic in the upper right, this unique and expressive work on paper mounted on mat — stands as a vivid example of Neizvestny’s exploration of the body as both a physical and metaphysical entity. It is a powerful statement from one of the most important figures among the Soviet nonconformist artists, whose work continues to resonate with raw emotional energy and philosophical insight.
