1941 Femme au chapeau vert et broche Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The composition presents a portrait rendered in a fragmented and stylized manner. The subjects face is deconstructed into geometric planes, with features presented from multiple viewpoints simultaneously. A prominent green hat dominates the upper portion of the frame, its structure composed of angular shapes and adorned with floral motifs that appear almost abstract.
The artist depicted the figure’s eyes as large and asymmetrical, one gazing directly forward while the other is angled slightly to the side, creating a sense of psychological complexity or perhaps disorientation. The nose is exaggerated in size and form, jutting out from the face at an unusual angle. A partial view of the mouth reveals teeth and a vibrant red lip color, contributing to a somewhat unsettling expression.
The figure’s hair falls in dark, angular strands along one side of the face, contrasting with the lighter tones used for the skin on the other. The neck is elongated and merges into a garment featuring a bold combination of blue, purple, and black hues. A large, ornate brooch, rendered in gold and yellow, sits prominently at the center of the chest, drawing attention to the figure’s adornment.
The background appears as a textured field of grey and white, providing minimal context but contributing to the overall flatness of the image. The brushwork is visible throughout, adding a tactile quality to the surface.
Subtly, theres an interplay between concealment and revelation; while certain features are emphasized and distorted, others are obscured or suggested rather than explicitly shown. This approach invites speculation about the subject’s identity and emotional state. The deliberate disruption of conventional perspective and anatomical accuracy suggests a focus on conveying psychological depth over realistic representation. The color palette, though somewhat muted overall, is punctuated by vibrant reds and greens that create visual tension and draw the viewers eye to specific areas within the composition.