1939 Fillette couronnВe au bateau Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The composition presents a figure rendered in a fragmented and stylized manner, characteristic of a Cubist aesthetic. Here we see a young girl, seemingly crowned with foliage or flowers, positioned centrally within the frame. Her face is fractured into planes, exhibiting an angularity that emphasizes her features – large, almond-shaped eyes dominate, conveying a sense of melancholy or introspection. The elongated nose and sharply defined chin contribute to this impression of stylized representation rather than naturalistic portraiture.
The figure’s body is depicted in a similarly geometric fashion, with the torso encased in what appears to be a patterned dress composed of intersecting lines and blocks of color – primarily blues, grays, and yellows. Her arms are extended outwards, one holding a small sailboat, while the other grasps a slender branch or staff adorned with leaves. The posture suggests both offering and vulnerability.
The background is divided into distinct zones. A vibrant orange dominates the upper portion, contrasting sharply with a band of green at the bottom that represents a landscape. Scattered throughout the lower area are stylized star-like shapes, adding to the dreamlike quality of the scene.
Several subtexts emerge from this arrangement. The presence of the crown suggests an elevation or symbolic royalty, potentially referencing innocence and purity. However, the fragmented depiction and somber expression introduce a layer of complexity; it is not a straightforward celebration but rather a poignant portrayal of a young girl burdened by circumstance. The sailboat held aloft could symbolize hope, escape, or perhaps a fragile dream threatened by the surrounding darkness implied in the color palette.
The date 1939 inscribed on the lower right corner provides crucial contextual information. Given the historical backdrop of impending war and political turmoil, the painting can be interpreted as an allegory for childhood innocence facing adversity. The girl’s vulnerability and the symbolic weight of her crown become particularly resonant when viewed against this historical context. The overall effect is one of quiet sorrow and a yearning for peace amidst uncertainty.