1922 Verre, bouteille et paquet de tabac Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1919-1930

The composition presents a still life rendered in a highly stylized and fragmented manner. Here we observe several objects arranged within a defined rectangular space, delineated by a thick black border that frames the scene. The palette is restrained, primarily utilizing shades of red-pink, green, blue, and black on a beige background.
A prominent pink rectangle dominates the lower portion of the image, serving as a foundational plane for the arrangement. Upon this surface rests a smaller, dark rectangular form, which appears to contain an intricate pattern or design – possibly representing packaging or a decorative element. Above this, a translucent object, likely glass, is depicted with sharp angles and fractured planes, suggesting a deliberate distortion of its form. Adjacent to it, a cylindrical shape, potentially a bottle, rises vertically, also broken down into geometric facets.
The artist employed linear hatching extensively, particularly in the depiction of the bottle and surrounding areas. These lines contribute to a sense of texture and volume while simultaneously reinforcing the fractured nature of the objects. The background is not entirely uniform; subtle variations in tone suggest an attempt at depth or atmospheric perspective, though this effect is subdued by the overall geometric abstraction.
The work seems less concerned with realistic representation than with exploring the formal qualities of shape, line, and color. The fragmentation suggests a deconstruction of traditional still life conventions, hinting at a focus on the underlying structure of objects rather than their surface appearance. The limited palette and stark geometry evoke a sense of austerity and intellectual rigor. One might interpret this as an exploration of perception – how we construct meaning from fragmented visual information – or as a commentary on the industrial ages impact on everyday objects, reducing them to simplified components. The overall effect is one of controlled chaos, where recognizable forms are simultaneously present and absent.