1914 Cartes Е jouer, bouteille, verre Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1908-1918

The composition presents a still life arranged on what appears to be a table or surface, rendered in a fragmented and abstracted style. A dark, cylindrical form dominates the central space, its stark silhouette contrasting with the lighter tones surrounding it. To the left of this object lies a collection of playing cards, their patterns disrupted and reconfigured into an almost mosaic-like arrangement. These cards are partially obscured by what seems to be a draped fabric, introducing a sense of layering and depth.
A white sheet or piece of paper is positioned on the right side, marked with a pattern of small dots and bearing fragmented lettering – ALLI. A fish skeleton is faintly discernible within this papers surface, adding an element of unexpected naturalism to the otherwise geometric scene. The background consists of overlapping planes in shades of green and grey, creating a sense of spatial ambiguity and flattening the perspective.
The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing greens, yellows, blacks, and whites. This limited range contributes to the overall feeling of austerity and detachment. The artist’s brushwork appears deliberate, with sharp angles and fractured lines contributing to the deconstruction of recognizable forms.
Subtleties within the arrangement suggest a commentary on communication and meaning. The fragmented lettering ALLI could be interpreted as an incomplete message or a disrupted narrative. The presence of playing cards hints at chance, games, and perhaps even societal structures. The fish skeleton, a symbol of mortality and decay, introduces a melancholic undertone that contrasts with the seemingly playful nature of the cards.
The overall effect is one of intellectual inquiry rather than emotional expression. It seems to explore the breakdown of traditional representation and the potential for new forms of visual language through the dismantling and reassembly of familiar objects. The work invites contemplation on themes of loss, fragmentation, and the elusive nature of meaning in a rapidly changing world.