1909 Usine de briques Е Tortosa Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1908-1918

The composition presents a fragmented view of what appears to be an industrial landscape interwoven with natural elements. Here we see a cluster of structures, likely buildings associated with brick production, dominating the central space. These are rendered in sharp, angular planes, devoid of traditional perspective and seemingly stacked upon one another. A prominent chimney rises from within this architectural mass, its form similarly broken down into geometric shapes.
Flanking these industrial forms are several palm trees, their fronds depicted as simplified, layered shapes that echo the overall fractured aesthetic. The vegetation provides a visual counterpoint to the rigid geometry of the buildings, suggesting a juxtaposition of nature and industry.
The color palette is restrained, primarily consisting of muted browns, grays, greens, and ochres. These tones contribute to a sense of somberness and perhaps even melancholy. Light appears to emanate from multiple sources, creating highlights and shadows that further emphasize the fragmented planes and add depth to the composition. The ground plane is delineated by a band of green, which seems somewhat detached from the rest of the scene, reinforcing the feeling of spatial disorientation.
Beyond the immediate visual elements, the painting evokes themes of modernization and its impact on the environment. The stark contrast between the industrial structures and the natural landscape suggests a disruption of the traditional harmony between humans and nature. The fractured forms could be interpreted as representing the disintegration of established order or the alienation inherent in industrialized society. There is an underlying tension present – a sense of both progress and loss, captured through the artist’s deliberate dismantling of conventional representational techniques. The overall effect is one of quiet observation, inviting contemplation on the complex relationship between human endeavor and the natural world.