1899 La Chata Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

The composition presents a full-length portrait of a woman set against a stark, dark background that dominates much of the canvas. The figure is positioned centrally and occupies nearly the entire vertical space, emphasizing her presence. She appears to be standing, though the lack of detail in the lower portion obscures any definitive ground line.
Here we see a woman with an elaborate hairstyle, adorned with what seems to be a floral accent. Her face displays a somewhat melancholic expression; the downturned mouth and slightly narrowed eyes contribute to this impression. A cigarette is held between her fingers, adding another layer of complexity to her characterization – suggesting perhaps a certain independence or world-weariness.
The artist employed a limited palette dominated by yellows, greens, and blues. The woman’s dress is rendered in shades of yellow and cream, with floral embellishments around the neckline introducing touches of red and pink. These colors contrast sharply with the cool tones of her skin and hair, creating visual interest and highlighting specific features. Brushstrokes are visible throughout, contributing to a sense of immediacy and energy. The application of paint appears somewhat flattened, eschewing traditional modeling techniques in favor of a more decorative style.
The elongated proportions of the figure contribute to an overall feeling of stylization rather than realism. This distortion, combined with the simplified forms and bold color choices, suggests an interest in conveying emotional states or psychological characteristics over precise physical representation. The dark background serves not only as contrast but also isolates the woman, intensifying her solitary presence.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of urban life, perhaps depicting a figure from the fringes of society – someone who exists outside conventional norms. The cigarette and the somewhat detached demeanor hint at a narrative beyond what is immediately visible; it suggests an individual with a story to tell, one that may be tinged with sadness or resignation.