1938 Nusch Eluard Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The composition presents a female figure in profile, rendered with a distinct departure from naturalistic representation. The artist employs a fractured perspective, deconstructing and reassembling facial features and body contours in a manner characteristic of Cubist principles. The face is elongated, the eyes almond-shaped and positioned asymmetrically, contributing to an overall sense of melancholy or introspection.
A muted palette dominates; cool tones of blue, purple, and grey are interwoven with areas of pale flesh color. This restricted range reinforces the somber mood and contributes to a feeling of detachment. The application of paint appears somewhat rough, with visible brushstrokes that add texture and visual interest to the surface.
The figure’s posture is significant. Her chin rests upon her hand, a gesture often associated with contemplation or weariness. This pose directs attention towards her face, emphasizing the emotional weight conveyed through her expression. The exposed upper torso, while subtly presented, introduces an element of vulnerability and intimacy. Its not overtly sensual; rather, it seems to underscore a sense of exposure and fragility.
The background is largely indistinct, a flat plane that serves to isolate the figure and intensify her presence. A faint inscription in the lower right corner suggests a date – 1938 – which provides a crucial historical context. Given the period, one might interpret this work as reflecting the anxieties and uncertainties of an era marked by political upheaval and impending conflict. The woman’s expression could be read as embodying a sense of quiet despair or resignation in the face of adversity.
Ultimately, the painting transcends a simple portrait; it functions as a symbolic representation of inner turmoil and emotional resilience. It is not merely about depicting a person but conveying an atmosphere – a feeling of profound introspection and perhaps, unspoken sorrow.