1936 Faune dВvoilant une femme (Suite Vollard L97) Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The etching presents a scene steeped in mythic and erotic undertones. Here we observe a figure, clearly inspired by classical iconography – specifically, a satyr or faun – engaged with a reclining female form. The fauns posture is assertive; he kneels, his muscular body dominating the composition as he pulls back a heavy drape that partially obscures the woman. His face, framed by thick hair and adorned with horns, conveys an expression of intense focus, perhaps even possessiveness.
The woman lies on what appears to be a bed or divan, her form rendered in softer lines than the faun’s, suggesting vulnerability and passivity. The drape she is partially concealed behind creates a sense of mystery and anticipation; it simultaneously reveals and conceals, contributing to the overall atmosphere of clandestine encounter.
The artist employed a stark contrast between light and shadow – a technique characteristic of etching – to heighten the drama. A strong beam of light illuminates the faun’s torso and parts of the womans body, while leaving much of the background in deep darkness. This selective illumination draws attention to the central figures and emphasizes their physicality. The dense hatching throughout the image creates a textural richness, adding depth and complexity to the scene.
Beyond the immediate depiction of an encounter, the work seems to explore themes of primal desire, the relationship between humanity and nature, and the power dynamics inherent in intimate relationships. The faun, as a creature embodying untamed instinct, represents a force that disrupts domesticity and challenges societal norms. The woman’s posture suggests not necessarily coercion but perhaps a complex interplay of submission and allure.
The inclusion of foliage – a plant or shrub visible on the left side – further reinforces the connection to nature and the wildness associated with the faun figure. Overall, the etching is a powerful exploration of human desire filtered through the lens of mythology, rendered in a style that emphasizes both sensuality and psychological tension.