1906 La toilette * Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

Here we observe a drawing executed in brown ink on paper, depicting two female figures engaged in what appears to be a ritualistic or preparatory scene. The composition is vertically oriented and dominated by the elongated forms of the subjects.
On the left, a nude woman stands with her head tilted back, holding a cloth above her hair as if drying it. Her body is rendered with simplified lines, emphasizing the curves of her torso and limbs. Theres an almost sculptural quality to her pose, suggesting a deliberate study of anatomy and form. The artist has used hatching to indicate shading and volume, though the overall effect remains starkly graphic.
To the right stands another woman, clothed in what seems to be a draped garment. She is positioned at a slight angle relative to the nude figure, her gaze directed towards an unseen point beyond the viewer. Her posture conveys a sense of attentiveness or observation. The drapery falls loosely around her form, creating a contrast with the exposed body of the other woman. A rectangular shape held in front of her suggests a mirror or perhaps a screen used for viewing.
The drawing’s monochromatic palette contributes to its austere and introspective mood. The limited range of tones directs attention towards the figures forms and their relationship to one another. There is an intentional lack of detail, which lends itself to a sense of immediacy and spontaneity.
Subtly, the scene hints at themes of transformation or preparation. The act of drying hair could symbolize cleansing or renewal. The presence of the clothed woman observing the nude figure introduces elements of voyeurism and scrutiny. It is possible that this drawing served as an exploratory study for a larger work, focusing on the interplay between the body, clothing, and observation – a contemplation of representation itself. The date inscribed in the lower right corner suggests it was created during a period of significant artistic experimentation.