Self Portrait With Thorn Necklace And Hummingbird Symbolism
Self Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird is a famous painting by Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The painting was created in 1940 and is oil on canvas. The painting features Kahlo wearing a thorn necklace and a dead hummingbird hanging from it. In this article, we will explore the symbolism behind this painting and what it represents.
The Thorn Necklace
The thorn necklace in the painting is believed to symbolize the pain and suffering that Kahlo experienced throughout her life. She suffered from polio as a child and was involved in a serious bus accident as a teenager that left her with lifelong injuries. The necklace could also represent the emotional pain she experienced due to her tumultuous relationship with her husband, artist Diego Rivera.
The Dead Hummingbird
The dead hummingbird in the painting is believed to represent the fragility of life and the inevitability of death. Hummingbirds are known for their beauty and grace, but they also have a short lifespan. The hummingbird could also represent Kahlo's own mortality and the fact that she was living with chronic pain and illness throughout her life.
The Crown of Thorns
Another symbol in the painting is the crown of thorns that surrounds Kahlo's head. This could be a reference to the crown of thorns that Jesus wore during his crucifixion. This symbolizes the idea that Kahlo was a martyr, someone who suffered for her art and her beliefs.
The Monkeys
In the background of the painting, there are two monkeys. One monkey is holding a pomegranate, which is a symbol of fertility and abundance. The other monkey is holding a bird, which could represent death. The monkeys could also represent the duality of human nature, with one monkey representing the rational mind and the other representing the irrational or emotional mind.
The Floral Headpiece
Kahlo is wearing a floral headpiece in the painting, which is believed to represent her connection to nature and the earth. The flowers could also represent the beauty and vitality of life, which contrasts with the dead hummingbird and the thorn necklace.
The Colors
The colors in the painting are also significant. The red scarf around Kahlo's neck represents passion and intensity, while the green foliage in the background represents growth and life. The black background could represent death and mourning.
Conclusion
Self Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird is a powerful painting that is full of symbolism. It represents the pain and suffering that Kahlo experienced throughout her life, as well as her connection to nature and the earth. The painting has become an iconic image of Kahlo and her unique artistic style.
