1937 La femme qui pleure I (III) Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The drawing presents a figure dominated by intense emotional distress. Here we observe a woman in profile, her face contorted in a visible expression of grief. The most striking feature is undoubtedly the exaggerated depiction of weeping; large teardrops cascade from eyes rendered as distorted orbs, their forms almost clock-like in their precision. These tears are not merely droplets but appear to be streams, contributing to an overwhelming sense of sorrow.
The artist employed a technique that emphasizes fragmentation and distortion. The face itself is broken down into angular planes, with sharp lines defining the cheekbones, nose, and mouth. This deconstruction contributes to the feeling of anguish; it suggests a shattering or disintegration of emotional stability. The hair falls in thick, uneven strands, adding to the overall sense of disarray.
The figure’s hands are prominently displayed, clasped tightly together as if in supplication or despair. They partially obscure the face, creating a barrier between the viewer and the subject while simultaneously highlighting her vulnerability. The lines used to depict the hands are agitated and nervous, mirroring the emotional turmoil being expressed.
A triangular form is positioned near the figure’s shoulder, its surface crisscrossed with dense, parallel lines. This element could be interpreted as a shawl or veil, but it also functions as an abstract representation of confinement or oppression. The intricate pattern of lines on this shape contrasts with the more fluid and expressive linework used for the face, creating a visual tension that reinforces the feeling of unease.
The monochromatic palette contributes to the somber mood. The lack of color focuses attention on the formal elements – line, form, and texture – intensifying the emotional impact. The use of hatching and cross-hatching creates areas of shadow and highlights, adding depth and volume to the figure while also contributing to a sense of claustrophobia.
Subtextually, this drawing seems to explore themes of suffering, loss, and perhaps even persecution. The exaggerated features and distorted forms suggest an experience that transcends individual grief, hinting at collective trauma or societal pain. The overall effect is one of profound sadness and vulnerability, conveyed through a powerful combination of expressive linework and fragmented composition.