1901 Portrait dhomme * Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

The painting presents a man in profile, his gaze directed downwards and away from the viewer. He is depicted with a pronounced sense of age; the skin exhibits a weathered texture, marked by wrinkles and discoloration. The hair, receding significantly, appears thin and unkempt, contributing to an overall impression of decline. A prominent, bulbous nose dominates the facial features, drawing immediate attention.
The artist employed a loose, expressive brushstroke throughout the composition. Colors are applied in thick impasto, creating a tactile surface that emphasizes the physicality of the paint itself. The palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, ochres, and muted greens – with touches of blue in the man’s jacket. This limited color range reinforces the somber mood. Light falls unevenly across the face, highlighting certain areas while leaving others in shadow, further accentuating the contours of age and weariness.
The subjects posture suggests introspection or perhaps melancholy. His shoulders are slumped, his head bowed, conveying a sense of resignation or quiet suffering. The hands, partially visible, appear clasped or folded, adding to this feeling of inwardness.
Beyond the straightforward portraiture, there is an underlying ambiguity in the work. The mans features, while realistically rendered, possess a certain caricature-like quality, hinting at a potential commentary on societal perceptions of age and appearance. It’s possible that the artist intended to portray not just an individual but also a broader archetype – perhaps representing the burdens of time or the vulnerability inherent in human existence. The lack of background detail focuses attention entirely on the subject, intensifying his presence and inviting contemplation about his inner state.