1940 Nu assis aux bras levВs Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The composition presents a seated figure rendered in a fragmented and angular style. The individual is positioned centrally within the frame, occupying nearly its entirety. A vibrant green backdrop provides contrast to the figures predominantly pale palette of creams, browns, and grays.
Here we see the subject depicted with arms raised above their head, a gesture that conveys both vulnerability and perhaps a reaching for something beyond immediate grasp. The face is stylized, characterized by an elongated nose and large, staring eyes that lack discernible pupils, contributing to a sense of detachment or emotional ambiguity. The mouth is reduced to a thin line, further minimizing expressive potential.
The body is deconstructed into geometric planes, with sharp angles defining the limbs and torso. This fracturing disrupts conventional notions of anatomical realism, emphasizing form over naturalistic representation. The figure’s legs are particularly striking; they appear disproportionately large and simplified, terminating in an exaggerated foot structure that seems almost alien. A purple cushion or platform serves as a base for the seated individual, adding another layer of color contrast and subtly elevating them within the composition.
The artist employed a limited range of colors, relying on tonal variations to create depth and volume. The starkness of the palette reinforces the painting’s overall sense of austerity and psychological intensity.
Subtexts embedded in this work suggest themes of isolation and introspection. The raised arms could be interpreted as an expression of supplication or surrender, while the figures detached gaze implies a withdrawal from external engagement. The fragmented form might symbolize a fractured identity or a sense of alienation within a rapidly changing world. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation tinged with melancholy, prompting reflection on the human condition and the complexities of inner experience.