1946 Hibou et flКche Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

The drawing presents a complex arrangement of forms rendered in stark black and white. A central figure, seemingly an owl, dominates the composition with its large, staring eyes and simplified facial features. The creature is positioned against a backdrop of geometric shapes and fragmented lines, creating a sense of disorientation and fractured reality.
To the left of the owl, a cluster of angular forms resembling foliage or architectural elements rises upward. These are sharply delineated, contributing to an overall feeling of tension and instability. A prominent arrow pierces through the composition diagonally from the right, intersecting with the owl’s body and further disrupting any sense of spatial coherence.
The artist employed a limited tonal range, relying heavily on contrasts between light and shadow to define forms and create depth. The lines are bold and decisive, suggesting an urgency or immediacy in their execution. A rectangular structure is positioned towards the upper right corner; it appears as if it’s suspended by a thin line, adding another layer of visual complexity.
The subtexts within this drawing appear to revolve around themes of vulnerability, threat, and perhaps even entrapment. The owl, traditionally associated with wisdom and nocturnal observation, seems exposed and defenseless against the encroaching arrow. Its large eyes convey a sense of apprehension or bewilderment. The fragmented nature of the surrounding forms suggests a world in disarray, possibly reflecting a period of upheaval or trauma.
The presence of the arrow introduces an element of violence and potential danger. It could be interpreted as a symbol of external forces acting upon the individual, or perhaps representing internal conflicts and anxieties. The suspended rectangular structure might symbolize confinement or observation, hinting at a loss of agency or freedom. Overall, the drawing conveys a mood of unease and uncertainty, prompting reflection on themes of fragility and resilience in the face of adversity.