Frida Kahlo
Black and White Photography
Photo
Surrealism
1938
23.0 x 18.0 cm
Philadelphia Museum of Art
The artwork displayed on this page is protected by copyright law, which means we cannot legally create or sell an identical reproduction. This protection is enforced under international agreements such as the Berne Convention and by national laws, including those outlined by the U.S. Copyright Law - Title 17.
This method fully complies with copyright regulations because it does not involve copying or duplicating the protected artwork. Instead, it is a creative reinterpretation - a new painting that is influenced by the original but not identical to it.
Giclée / Art Print
Museum-quality giclée or canvas print with fast production and flexible finish options. ( Buy Hand Made Painting
Switch to Digital Image)
Pick from our preset sizes that match the artwork's original proportions.
Type the width and the height you need, to fit your frame or your wall. A print can only be cut, never made bigger than the picture, so a size with a different shape loses a part of the image. We send you a digital mockup to approve before we print anything. The picture shown on this page does not show the real cut — only the mockup does.
Worldwide Delivery () in 2 weeks instead of standard 4/5 weeks. (29 October)
Free Worldwide Express Shipping
High-Quality Linen Canvas
Full Shipping Insurance
Customs Tax Refund Guarantee
True Color Matching Guarantee
100-Day Return Policy (Defects Only)
100% Money-Back Guarantee
Bulk Discount Offer
Frida Kahlo
Giclée / Art Print
Reproduction Size
-
Total Price
$ 81
A Glimpse Through Time: Capturing Frida Kahlo's Presence
This evocative black and white photograph, dating from 1938, presents an arresting portrait of the iconic Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo. More than a mere likeness, it is a captured moment brimming with untold stories and profound self-possession. The composition immediately draws the eye to Kahlo’s gaze; she looks directly out, engaging the viewer with an intensity that feels both vulnerable and utterly commanding. Her face, meticulously adorned with makeup, transforms her features into a canvas of artistic expression itself. The photograph is rich in its visual narrative, not only centering on Kahlo but also subtly incorporating two other figures in the background—a presence on the left and another further back to the right—which adds layers of depth and context to this singular moment.
The Artistry of Documentation: Style and Technique
Julien Levy’s photographic eye, evident here, elevates what might otherwise be a simple snapshot into a piece of enduring art. The choice of black and white medium strips away the distraction of color, forcing the viewer to concentrate on form, texture, and the exquisite interplay of light and shadow. This monochromatic treatment lends the image a timeless, almost sculptural quality. While the technique is rooted in documentary photography, the resulting effect borders on portraiture painting; every highlight catches the sheen of her hair, and every shadow deepens the mystery around her eyes. The print size, 23 x 18 cm, suggests an intimate viewing experience, allowing one to feel close to the subject without being overwhelmed by scale.
Historical Echoes: Context in Mid-Century Mexico
To view this photograph is to touch upon a pivotal moment in cultural history. In 1938, Frida Kahlo was at the height of her public visibility, an artist whose life and suffering became inseparable from her art. The presence of other individuals suggests a social gathering or a documented outing, placing her within a specific milieu—one where artistic circles intersected with burgeoning national identity movements. This piece serves as a tangible artifact, connecting us directly to the vibrant, complex atmosphere of Mexico City during that transformative era, viewed through the lens of an acclaimed photographer like Julien Levy.
Symbolism and Emotional Resonance for the Modern Collector
The enduring power of this portrait lies in its emotional resonance. Kahlo’s gaze is perhaps the most potent symbol—it speaks of resilience, defiance, and profound self-awareness. For the collector or designer, owning a reproduction of this work means acquiring more than just wall decor; it is acquiring a piece of cultural dialogue. It invites contemplation on identity, the weight of public scrutiny, and the enduring strength found within personal narrative. The subtle inclusion of background figures suggests that even in moments of intense self-focus, we are always observed, making the artwork deeply relatable to contemporary life.
Questions & Answers
What is "Frida Kahlo" about, and what atmosphere does it have?
"Frida Kahlo" by Julien Levy depicts portrait, black and white, makeup, fashion, group photo, 1930s style, in a nostalgic mood. Subject and atmosphere together describe the work.
What are the author and date of "Frida Kahlo"?
"Frida Kahlo" was created by Julien Levy in 1938.
What style does "Frida Kahlo" belong to?
"Frida Kahlo" is a work of Surrealism. The movement indicates the artistic tradition the work is part of.
Artist Biography
early life and education
julien levy, a renowned art dealer and owner of julien levy gallery in new york city, was born on january 22, 1906. he studied museum administration at harvard under the guidance of paul j. sachs but dropped out shortly before graduating.career highlights
levy's association with marcel duchamp led to his introduction to man ray and berenice abbott, resulting in his acquisition of a portion of eugène atget's personal archive. in 1927, he met artist and writer mina loy and married her daughter, joella haweis. after their divorce in 1942, levy married surrealist artist muriel streeter in 1944.julien levy gallery: a hub for surrealists and avant-garde artists
levy's gallery, established in 1931 at 602 madison avenue, played a pivotal role in promoting european and american surrealist artists. notable exhibitions include:- man ray's first major show (1932)
- surrealism: paintings, drawings, and photographs, featuring pablo picasso, max ernst, joseph cornell, marcel duchamp, and salvador dalí (1932)
- salvador dalí's the persistence of memory (1932)
- frida kahlo's first solo exhibition in the united states (1938)
legacy and later life
levy moved to connecticut in 1949, married jean farley mclaughlin in 1958, and taught at sarah lawrence college and state university of new york at purchase. he authored memoir of an art gallery and surrealism. levy passed away on february 10, 1981.relevant links from OriginalUniqueArt
important museums and collections
discover more about julien levy's life and work on OriginalUniqueArt.Julien Levy
1906 - 1981 , United States of America
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Julien Levy
- Nationality: American
- Date Of Birth: 1906
- Date Of Death: 1981
- Place Of Birth: New York City, United States of America
- Notable Artworks:
- Persistence of Memory
- The Limp Watches
- Artistic Movement Or Style: Surrealism, Avant-garde
- Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
- Marcel Duchamp
- Paul J. Sachs
- Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist:
- Man Ray
- Berenice Abbott
- Salvador Dalí
- Frida Kahlo

Glass option is only available in size under 110 CM
