1901 Le poКte Alberto Lozano Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

The drawing presents a figure in what appears to be a moment of casual movement. The subject is rendered with loose, expressive lines, suggesting a rapid execution and prioritizing gesture over precise detail. He wears a hat that casts a shadow across his face, partially obscuring its features and contributing to an air of mystery or perhaps introspection. A dark coat drapes around him, the fabric indicated by quick strokes that convey texture rather than form. A vibrant red scarf is knotted loosely at his neck, providing a striking contrast against the muted tones of the rest of the attire.
The figure’s posture is somewhat awkward; he seems to be shifting his weight or caught mid-stride. His hands are positioned near his hips, one slightly forward, suggesting a relaxed but perhaps hesitant stance. The artist has employed a limited palette – primarily browns, blacks, and reds – which reinforces the drawings overall somber mood. The background is minimal, consisting of a light beige tone that allows the figure to dominate the composition.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a man in clothing, there’s an underlying sense of melancholy or perhaps world-weariness conveyed through his posture and the obscured facial expression. The hurried quality of the drawing itself might suggest a fleeting encounter or a desire to capture a particular mood rather than a detailed portrait. It is possible that the artist intended to portray not just a likeness but also a feeling – a suggestion of solitude, contemplation, or perhaps even a quiet sadness. The sketch’s intimacy and immediacy invite speculation about the subjects inner life and the circumstances surrounding his portrayal.