1900 La femme au chat Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

The pastel drawing presents a domestic interior dominated by a cool, turquoise palette. A woman is depicted in profile, leaning towards a dark cat that she cradles gently against her chest. Her posture suggests tenderness and intimacy; the head is tilted downwards, eyes focused on the animal, creating an impression of quiet absorption. She wears a light-colored blouse with a delicate lace collar, hinting at a certain refinement or social standing.
The background is rendered in broad strokes of turquoise and green, suggesting heavy draperies that partially obscure the rooms details. The simplicity of the setting directs attention to the central figures – woman and cat. A framed portrait hangs on the wall behind them; it depicts two individuals, a man and a woman, presented in a formal style, contrasting with the informal intimacy of the foreground scene.
The color choices are significant. The prevalence of turquoise evokes a sense of melancholy or introspection, while the contrast between the cool background and the woman’s lighter attire draws the eye to her figure. The cat itself is rendered in deep blacks and grays, creating a visual anchor within the composition. Its presence introduces an element of mystery and perhaps even a touch of darkness into the otherwise gentle scene.
Subtly, the portrait on the wall suggests a connection to a more conventional or established world – one potentially removed from the quiet intimacy shared between the woman and her pet. This juxtaposition might imply themes of longing, isolation, or a desire for connection beyond societal expectations. The drawing’s overall effect is one of understated emotion, capturing a fleeting moment of solace and companionship within a carefully constructed visual space.