1939 TИte de femme en pleurs Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The composition presents a portrait study dominated by a figure seemingly overwhelmed with grief. The subjects face is rendered in a highly stylized manner, characterized by distorted features and exaggerated proportions. A prominent, elongated nose merges with the upper lip, creating an unsettling ambiguity between human and animal characteristics. Two large eyes, positioned asymmetrically, are surrounded by what appear to be tear tracks, emphasizing the emotional distress conveyed.
The color palette is striking. The background is a saturated yellow, which contrasts sharply with the pinkish-brown tones of the face and the vibrant purple and green hat that obscures much of the hair. A blue collar or scarf frames the neck, adding another layer of chromatic complexity. These colors do not appear naturalistic; instead, they contribute to an overall sense of unease and heightened emotion.
The artist’s use of flattened planes and angular forms contributes to a feeling of fragmentation and psychological tension. The figure is presented in profile, but with elements of frontal perspective incorporated into the face, further disrupting spatial coherence. This technique serves not only to deconstruct conventional portraiture but also to convey an interior state of turmoil.
The subtexts within this work are complex and open to interpretation. The combination of human and animal features suggests a loss of identity or perhaps a dehumanization brought on by suffering. The tears, rendered as stark white streaks against the face, evoke a sense of profound sadness and vulnerability. Given the historical context in which it was created, one might consider the possibility that this portrait reflects anxieties surrounding political upheaval and personal tragedy. The distorted features could be read as symbolic representations of trauma or displacement. Ultimately, the painting is less about depicting an individual and more about exploring universal themes of grief, loss, and the fragility of human existence.