What is the title of Frida Kahlo’s 1944 painting depicting her spinal column as a classical column?

Frida Kahlo’s 1944 painting depicting her spinal column as a classical column is The Broken Column.

In the painting, Kahlo presents herself standing in a barren landscape with her torso opened to reveal a fractured Ionic column in place of her spine. A surgical brace surrounds her body, and nails cover her skin. The imagery refers to the physical pain and medical treatment she endured after her 1925 accident.

The work was made during a period when Kahlo’s health was especially difficult. She had undergone spinal surgery and often needed support to remain upright. The painting therefore combines a direct self-portrait with an allegory of structural collapse and endurance.

The Spanish title is La columna rota. It should not be confused with paintings such as Tree of Hope, Remain Strong, which also address illness and medical experience but use different imagery.