Painting Overview
Matador reflects Igor Shulman’s personal memory of childhood, portraying a boy facing the imagined drama of a rhinoceros, capturing both vulnerability and playful courage.
See also the commissioned Matador II OUT OF STOCK
Artist’s Insight
This boy reminds me of me. At his age, I was the same. I played with cows in a bullfight. In this picture, I replaced the rhino cow. To enhance the drama of the image. I think you will forgive me this liberty.
Artwork Description
In MotodorI, Igor Shulman captures the tension and fragility of childhood confronted by overwhelming power. The painting centers on a young boy, arms flung in alarm, seemingly fleeing from a massive rhinoceros advancing from the right. The boy’s dark attire contrasts with the pale, textured blue background, emphasizing his vulnerability and the drama of the moment.
The rhinoceros is rendered with anatomical precision, its bulk and lowered head suggesting unstoppable force. Between the figures stretches an empty, textured space, amplifying the sense of isolation and imminent danger. The muted palette, limited primarily to dark figures against pale blue, directs focus entirely onto the confrontation, while subtle hints of ground textures add depth without easing the tension.
Shulman combines photorealistic elements with expressive brushwork. The textured background and visible strokes enhance the emotional impact, giving the scene a visceral, almost tangible quality. The composition evokes anxiety, fear, and the existential vulnerability of childhood, inviting reflection on the encounter between innocence and raw, unmediated power.
Dimensions & Technique
Created in 2016, Matador (Self Portrait) is original oil on 100% linen canvas by Igor Shulman. The subject of this work is People and portraits. The artwork measures 70 x 70 cm (27.56 x 27.56 in). This work is square oriented.
| Medium | Original oil on 100% linen canvas |
|---|---|
| Size (cm) | 70 x 70 cm |
| Size (inches) | 27.56 x 27.56 in |
| Orientation | Square |
| Style | Photorealistic |
| Subject | People and portraits |
| Year | 2016 |
| Signature | Signed by Igor Shulman, with certificate of authenticity |
This artwork belongs to the People category and highlights themes such as Boy, Childhood, Contemporary, Dramatic, emotion, Expressive, Fear, Figurative, Figure, Photorealistic, Rhinoceros, Romantic, Vulnerability. Original oil on 100% linen canvas, signed by the artist and delivered with a certificate of authenticity. Worldwide shipping, safe packaging, and framing available upon request. Each artwork is carefully prepared for delivery. Igor Shulman has been painting professionally for more than 30 years, ensuring both artistic quality and lasting materials. Every artwork is shipped with care and comes with a handwritten certificate of origin.
Where This Artwork Is Now
This painting "Matador (Self Portrait)" has found its new home at the following location:
Frequently Asked Questions about Matador (Self Portrait)
Is Matador (Self Portrait) an original artwork?
Yes, this work is Original oil on 100% linen canvas by Igor Shulman, signed by the artist.
What are the details of this artwork?
Size: 70 x 70 cm. Style: Photorealistic. Subject: People and portraits. Year: 2016. Medium: Original oil on 100% linen canvas.
Does Matador (Self Portrait) come framed?
Paintings are shipped rolled in a protective tube. Stretching and framing are available upon request.
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes, we deliver worldwide with secure, insured shipping. Delivery times vary by country.
Can I return Matador (Self Portrait) if it doesn’t fit my space?
We offer a 14-day return policy. If the artwork doesn’t meet your expectations, you may return it in original condition.
Are custom artworks or commissions currently available?
At the moment, Igor Shulman is not accepting commissions or custom artwork requests due to health reasons.
Why Collectors Choose Igor Shulman’s Art
- Original hand-painted artwork
- Signed by the artist
- Certificate of authenticity included
- Premium 100% linen canvas with UV protection
- Secure worldwide shipping
What Collectors Say
Our collectors from around the world share their impressions of Igor Shulman’s art. Read all testimonials
I’m not an art historian or critic — just an ordinary person and a stylist by profession. But I’ve been a longtime admirer of Igor Shulman’s work and try to visit every exhibition he holds. We’re lucky to own a few of his pieces, and each time I see his art, I discover something new. This time, I wa…
If you are considering buying or commissioning a painting from Igor Shulman...don't hesitate. Besides being a truly exceptional artist, he is extremely conscientious. He ships quickly, and his packaging is outstanding. And if you commission an original work, he takes the time to really understand wh…
After reviewing Igor Shulman’s selected portfolio, I believe his most compelling series is the Ambience collection, particularly pieces like "Etude No. 377 In Front of a Mirror". This series has the strongest narrative quality, the most cohesive artistic vision, and the greatest potential for creati…
Shulmans Bilder haben mich sofort in ihren Bann gezogen, als ich diese zum ersten Mal sah. Bis heute haben sie keinen Deut dieser Faszination verloren. Seine Bilder sind wie ein Film, der läuft, für einen Moment stehen bleibt, um dann weiterzulaufen. Beim einen Bild weiß man, dieser Film hat vor …
About the Artist – Igor Shulman
Igor Shulman is a contemporary painter known for his emotional, figurative and impressionistic oil paintings. His works are collected worldwide and celebrated for their honesty, intimacy, and technique.
Over the past three decades, Shulman has created a distinctive artistic voice, exploring themes of human relationships, solitude and emotional tension. His works are part of private collections across Europe, the United States and Asia.
See Similar Paintings to "Matador (Self Portrait)"
Discover original oil paintings from Igor Shulman related to this work. These pieces are connected by themes such as Boy, Childhood, Contemporary, Dramatic, Emotion and belong to the People category. They complement "Matador (Self Portrait)" with unique perspectives and styles.
