What was the title of Frida Kahlo’s final painting completed before her death?

Viva la Vida, Watermelons is generally identified as Frida Kahlo’s final completed painting before her death.

Painted in 1954, the work depicts sliced watermelons in vivid reds and greens. The inscription “Viva la Vida” appears on one of the pieces of fruit, meaning “Long live life.” Its bright subject and celebratory wording contrast with the severe health problems Kahlo experienced during her final years.

Kahlo died on July 13, 1954, in Mexico City. Viva la Vida, Watermelons is therefore often discussed as a late affirmation of vitality, although interpreting the inscription as a simple final message requires caution because the painting’s exact chronology and meaning cannot be reduced to one slogan.

The work should not be confused with Kahlo’s final public exhibition appearance, which took place in 1953, or with paintings such as The Wounded Deer, completed earlier in her career.