1899 Portrait dUtrillo Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

Here we see a portrait rendered in a style characterized by angularity and distortion. The subject is presented head-and-shoulders, framed within a loosely defined rectangular space that suggests a background or setting. A dark hat sits atop the figures head, its shape contributing to the overall sense of asymmetry.
The face itself is markedly elongated, with sharply delineated features. Eyes are rendered as narrow slits, conveying an impression of introspection or perhaps melancholy. The nose is prominent and angular, while the mouth is reduced to a thin line, suggesting restraint. A neatly trimmed mustache adds to the formality of the depiction.
The artist employed a limited palette dominated by shades of brown, black, and beige. This restricted color range contributes to a somber mood and emphasizes the formal qualities of the composition. Brushstrokes appear loose and expressive, adding texture and dynamism to the surface. The application of paint is not concerned with precise representation; instead, it prioritizes conveying an emotional state or psychological impression.
The figure’s attire – a dark suit and tie – suggests a certain social standing or professional identity. However, the exaggerated features and unconventional rendering undermine any straightforward interpretation of status or character. Theres a sense of unease conveyed through the distortion; the subject is recognizable as human but rendered in a way that feels unsettlingly unfamiliar.
The composition’s flatness, achieved by minimizing depth cues, reinforces this feeling of detachment. The overall effect is one of psychological intensity and formal experimentation, suggesting an exploration of identity beyond superficial appearances.