1897 Portrait de Ramon Pixot Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

Here we see a portrait in profile, executed with a loose and expressive style. The subject is a man wearing a hat, his features rendered with simplified lines and washes of color. A prominent beard dominates the lower portion of his face, its texture suggested by quick, agitated strokes. The eyes are small and somewhat downcast, conveying an impression of introspection or perhaps melancholy.
The artists use of color is restrained but effective. Earthy tones – ochre, brown, and muted blues – predominate, creating a warm, slightly somber atmosphere. The background appears to be a wash of similar hues, contributing to the overall flatness of the composition. There’s an intentional lack of detail; the focus isnt on precise representation but rather on capturing a fleeting impression or psychological state.
The lines are not clean and crisp, but wavering and hesitant, suggesting a spontaneous gesture. This informality lends a sense of immediacy to the work, as if we are witnessing a brief moment captured in time. The hat, rendered with broad strokes, adds a touch of formality that contrasts with the otherwise casual execution.
The composition is tightly cropped, focusing solely on the subjects head and upper torso. This close framing intensifies the sense of intimacy and draws attention to his facial expression. There’s an underlying feeling of quiet dignity in the man’s posture, despite the somewhat rough and unrefined style of the depiction. The overall effect is one of understated elegance and a subtle exploration of character.