1901 La mort de Casagemas2 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

The composition presents a figure lying prone on what appears to be a bed or surface covered with white sheets. The individuals face is turned towards the viewer at a sharp angle, revealing a pallid complexion rendered in muted greens and blues. A thick mane of dark hair frames the head, contrasting sharply with the cool tones of the skin.
The artist has employed an expressive brushstroke throughout, creating a sense of agitated movement within the scene. The background is dominated by swirling strokes of red and orange, which seem to emanate from a single source: a candle flame positioned in the upper right corner. This light source casts a warm glow upon the figure’s face, highlighting its stillness while simultaneously intensifying the surrounding darkness.
The arrangement of elements suggests a moment of profound loss or transition. The prone posture and the unnatural coloration of the skin evoke a sense of death or deep slumber. The candle flame, often symbolic of life, hope, or remembrance, is placed in close proximity to the figure’s face, creating an unsettling juxtaposition. It could be interpreted as representing a fading memory, a final flicker of existence, or perhaps even a guiding light towards an unknown realm.
The overall effect is one of melancholy and quiet despair. The artist has eschewed traditional depictions of mourning, opting instead for a more abstract and emotionally charged representation of loss. The lack of specific detail regarding the setting or surrounding circumstances allows for multiple interpretations, inviting contemplation on themes of mortality, memory, and the fragility of human existence.