1939 Femme assise Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The composition presents a seated female figure rendered in a fractured and angular style. The background is dominated by varying shades of blue, applied with visible brushstrokes that contribute to a sense of unease or melancholy. The figure herself is constructed from geometric shapes – triangles, rectangles, and planes – which are sharply delineated by dark outlines.
The face is particularly striking; it’s divided into distinct sections, each colored differently (red, yellow, green) and presented at an oblique angle to the viewer. Eyes appear disproportionately large and almond-shaped, conveying a sense of heightened emotion or perhaps anxiety. The mouth is rendered as a thin, slightly upturned line, suggesting a restrained expression that could be interpreted as either amusement or resignation.
The figure’s attire consists of a structured jacket with angular shoulders and a red skirt. These elements are also constructed from geometric forms, reinforcing the overall fragmented aesthetic. A decorative element resembling a headdress or hat sits atop her head, further emphasizing the stylized nature of the portrayal. The hand holding what appears to be a lit cigarette is positioned near the mouth, adding another layer of complexity to the figure’s demeanor.
The paintings palette is limited but impactful; the blues and reds create a visual tension that contributes to the work’s emotional weight. The date 17.6.39 inscribed in the upper right corner provides a crucial contextual anchor, suggesting a creation during a period of significant political turmoil in Europe.
Subtexts within this piece seem to revolve around themes of displacement and psychological fragmentation. The disjointed forms and unsettling color scheme evoke a sense of disruption and instability. Given the historical context, it is plausible that the work reflects anxieties surrounding the escalating threat of war and its potential impact on individual lives. The figure’s posture – seated but seemingly poised – suggests a state of watchful waiting or quiet defiance. Ultimately, the painting resists easy interpretation, instead presenting a complex portrait of an individual navigating a world in crisis.