The Broken Column (1944)

The Broken Column was painted by Mexican artist Frida Kahlo in 1944-10 years before her death. This painting was done after she had spinal surgery to correct an ongoing injury she's had as a result of a bus accident at the age of 18. This is obviously a portrait and perhaps how she sees herself. She is split open with a metal pole, or column, going down her body portrays that he spine will never be what it once was, but rather something that is made from materials. Without this column she would not be standing, and this drastically shows that. She is also standing in front of an earthy background with appears to be broken, or crumbling. She is also alone in this painting compared to so many others that have other subjects. This shows her solitude, isolation and her sadness.