1907 Femme-Totem Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

The drawing presents a figure rendered in a simplified, almost schematic style. The subject appears humanoid, though its form is highly abstracted and fragmented. Here we see a central vertical axis defining the body, with distinct sections delineated by angular lines. The head, disproportionately small compared to the torso, features rudimentary facial markings – two dots for eyes and a single line suggesting a nose.
The upper portion of the figure’s body is characterized by an ovoid shape, intersected by a vertical line that suggests either a stylized breast or a symbolic division. Below this, the form narrows considerably before expanding again into a broad, curvilinear lower section which could be interpreted as legs or a skirt-like garment. The overall impression is one of deliberate reduction and distortion, moving away from naturalistic representation.
The drawing’s monochromatic palette and the use of what appears to be lined paper contribute to its austere aesthetic. The lines on the paper itself become an integral part of the composition, creating a subtle grid that interacts with the figures form. This interaction could suggest a sense of confinement or a structured environment within which the subject exists.
The work’s subtexts are open to interpretation. The fragmented nature of the figure might allude to themes of deconstruction and reassembly, questioning traditional notions of beauty and representation. The simplified facial features evoke a sense of anonymity or universality, suggesting that this is not an individual portrait but rather a symbolic archetype. The overall effect is unsettling yet intriguing, prompting reflection on the relationship between form, meaning, and perception.