In Portret van een vrouw van opzij, we see a woman depicted in profile. The colors are soft and muted, with a focus on earthy tones. Her hair is styled elegantly, and the background is simple, allowing the figure to stand out.

The overall composition conveys a sense of calm and introspection. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a medium that allows for rich texture and depth. The brushwork is smooth, enhancing the serene quality of the portrait. The dimensions are approximately 60 x 80 cm, making it a medium-sized work.

The use of light and shadow adds dimension to the figure, highlighting her features. Richard Nicolaüs Roland Holst was part of the Symbolist movement, which sought to express ideas and emotions through symbolic imagery. This portrait reflects his interest in the inner life of his subjects. An interesting fact about this work is that it captures not just the likeness of the woman but also a sense of her character.

Holst's works often explore themes of femininity and identity.