The recent passing of the legendary Mexican actress Silvia Pinal has left a void in the hearts of many. Known as "The Last Diva of Mexican Cinema," Pinal's legacy is vast, but one of her most treasured possessions was a portrait painted by the great muralist Diego Rivera. Completed in 1956, this painting captures Pinal at the height of her career, wearing a simple yet elegant black dress. But what secrets does this artwork hold?
6 Little Known Facts About the Portrait of Silvia Pinal by Diego Rivera
An Architect's Influence: Manuel Rosen Morrison, the architect designing Pinal's mansion, facilitated the meeting between Rivera and Pinal. Although Pinal was reluctant at first, Meni Rosen, as his friends called him, convinced her that no proper residence would be complete without a work by the famous muralist.
A Battle of Wills: Initially, Diego Rivera suggested that Silvia Pinal pose nude for her portrait, in line with his preference for capturing the raw, unadorned beauty of his subjects. However, Pinal, known for her grace and determination, insisted on maintaining her own sense of dignity and privacy. She chose to wear a simple yet elegant black dress. Rivera respected her choice, and the resulting painting showcased Pinal's elegance and highlighted her strong will and control over her own image.
A Gift of Love: Rivera painted the portrait as a personal gift for Pinal. He gave it to her on November 3 of 1956 to celebrate her recent 25th birthday and it was never sold. Its value today is estimated at approximately $3 million dollars, or around 60 million Mexican pesos. The price reflects both Rivera’s stature as one of Mexico’s greatest muralists and Pinal’s status as a luminary of the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema.
3 Portraits in 1: The portrait is often regarded as a "three-in-one" masterpiece. Not only does it feature Pinal's front-facing figure, but it also includes her reflection in a strategically placed mirror, adding depth and dimension to the piece. The third element, her shadow, subtly completes the triad, casting a mysterious and ethereal presence that enriches the narrative. This intricate arrangement showcases Rivera's genius in capturing multiple perspectives within a single frame, creating a complex and engaging work of art that draws viewers into its layers of reality and illusion.
Display Dupe: Despite its cherished place in Silvia Pinal's home, the painting that visitors often admire is actually a meticulously crafted copy. The real portrait, with all its historical and artistic value, is securely housed in a bank's safe for insurance purposes.
The portrait's legacy: Ever thoughtful about her legacy and the cultural significance of her treasured possessions, Pinal bequeathed the painting to her three children, Silvia Pasquel, Alejandra Guzmán and Luis Enrique Guzmán, with the stipulation that it would eventually find its rightful home in the Diego Rivera Museum in Mexico City. Pinal's foresight underscores her commitment to Mexican art and culture, even beyond her lifetime.
Celebrating Silvia Pinal's Legacy
Silvia Pinal's life and career were marked by her incredible talent and determination. Her portrait by Diego Rivera stands as a testament to her enduring legacy and the artistic brilliance of Rivera. As we remember Pinal, we also celebrate the timeless art that continues to inspire and captivate.
