1939 Femme allongВe sur un divan (Dora Maar) Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The composition presents a reclining figure on what appears to be a sofa or daybed, set against a backdrop of stark contrasts and fragmented forms. The subjects posture is relaxed yet unsettling; she lies with her head turned slightly away from the viewer, an expression of melancholy or perhaps guardedness evident in her eyes. Her features are rendered in a fractured style, characteristic of a deconstructionist approach to portraiture. Sharp angles and planes define her face and body, disrupting any sense of naturalistic representation.
The color palette is dominated by greens, yellows, and grays, punctuated by areas of red and purple. The green tones contribute to an atmosphere of unease or sickness, while the yellow suggests a fleeting moment of brightness or perhaps a distorted perception of reality. The red on the sofa provides a visual anchor but also introduces a sense of tension or potential danger.
Behind the figure, two rectangular panels are visible, resembling windows or screens. These openings reveal stylized depictions of foliage – branches bearing clusters of small flowers or buds. This element introduces a note of naturalism into an otherwise abstract scene, yet the simplified rendering and placement behind the subject suggest they may be symbolic rather than literal representations of nature. They could signify hope, fragility, or perhaps even a sense of confinement.
The overall effect is one of psychological complexity and emotional ambiguity. The fragmentation of form and the unsettling color scheme contribute to a feeling of disorientation and unease. It’s possible to interpret this work as an exploration of interiority – a depiction not of outward appearance but of a state of mind, perhaps marked by anxiety or disillusionment. The figures averted gaze and fractured features suggest a sense of alienation or emotional distance. The juxtaposition of the stylized foliage with the fragmented human form creates a tension between natural beauty and psychological turmoil.