1920 Projet pour le costume de Pulcinella1 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1919-1930

The drawing presents a figure in what appears to be a theatrical costume design. A woman is depicted from the upper torso upwards, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a somewhat melancholic expression. Her hair, rendered in loose brushstrokes of brown and black, falls down her back, partially obscuring the shoulders.
The costume itself is complex, suggesting a layered and potentially restrictive garment. The sleeves are voluminous and white, contrasting sharply with a fitted bodice composed of blue and green sections. The upper portion of the bodice features intricate lacework detailing, hinting at an elaborate construction. Her hands are clasped in front of her, positioned low on the body, which draws attention to the form-fitting nature of the costume and potentially conveys a sense of constraint or vulnerability.
The color palette is muted, dominated by earthy tones – greens, browns, blues, and creams – with touches of pink highlighting the hands and face. The background is indistinct, rendered in washes of brown and black that create a shadowy atmosphere, isolating the figure and emphasizing her presence. This lack of detail in the backdrop directs focus entirely onto the subject and her attire.
Subtly, the drawing seems to explore themes of performance and identity. The costume suggests a character playing a role, perhaps one with inherent sadness or complexity. The woman’s expression reinforces this notion; it is not overtly joyful but rather contemplative, as if she is considering the weight of the persona she embodies. The restrictive nature of the garment could be interpreted as symbolic of societal expectations or limitations imposed upon individuals within a theatrical context – or even beyond. The clasped hands further contribute to this sense of introspection and potential confinement.
The drawing’s style – characterized by loose brushwork, simplified forms, and an emphasis on color – suggests a preliminary study for a larger work, possibly a stage production. It is not merely a depiction of clothing but rather an exploration of character through costume design.