1945 Le homard Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

The composition presents a fragmented still life arranged within a shallow pictorial space. A dominant lobster occupies the right portion of the canvas, its form deconstructed into angular planes and delineated with bold black outlines. The creatures coloration is striking – a combination of deep reds, purples, and pinks – rendered in flat areas of pigment rather than modeled to suggest volume. Its segmented body appears almost architectural, suggesting a deliberate construction rather than organic growth.
To the left, a green form rises, resembling a stylized vessel or perhaps an abstracted representation of foliage. A circular element bisected by a diagonal line is positioned adjacent to it, contributing to the overall sense of geometric disruption. The background is divided into distinct zones: a red area at the top transitions into a blue and white checkered pattern below. This patterned surface introduces a decorative quality that contrasts with the more assertive forms in the foreground.
The artist’s use of color is significant. The vibrant hues, particularly the reds and greens, create a sense of visual energy while the limited palette maintains a degree of unity. The flatness of the application denies any illusionistic depth, reinforcing the paintings two-dimensional nature.
Subtextually, the work seems to explore themes of fragmentation and reconstruction. The lobster, traditionally associated with abundance and luxury, is presented in a manner that strips it of its natural context, reducing it to a collection of shapes and colors. This dismantling could be interpreted as a commentary on the disruption of traditional values or the breakdown of established order – a possible reflection of post-war anxieties. The checkered background might symbolize a sense of confinement or a structured environment within which these fragmented elements exist. Ultimately, the painting resists easy interpretation, inviting viewers to engage with its formal qualities and consider the symbolic weight of its disparate components.