1949 Quatre profils enlacВs Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

The ceramic plate presents a complex arrangement of intertwined profiles rendered in a monochromatic palette of muted greens and whites. Here we see four faces, seemingly pressed together in an embrace or entanglement. The artist has employed a simplified, almost schematic approach to depicting the human form; features are reduced to essential lines and shapes, emphasizing the underlying structure rather than detailed realism. Eyes are particularly prominent, large and somewhat disembodied, conveying a sense of vulnerability or intense observation.
The composition is tightly controlled within the circular boundary of the plate, creating an immediate feeling of confinement and intimacy. The overlapping profiles suggest a merging of identities, blurring individual boundaries to create a unified whole. This visual intertwining could be interpreted as representing themes of connection, dependence, or even constraint.
Scattered around the central figures are stylized floral motifs – leaves and blossoms – which further contribute to the sense of organic entanglement. These elements seem to grow out from the faces themselves, suggesting a symbiotic relationship between humanity and nature, or perhaps an exploration of the inherent interconnectedness of life. The sparse application of green pigment against the white background creates a stark contrast that draws attention to the contours of the figures and the delicate details of the foliage.
The plate’s format itself is significant; its function as a functional object contrasts with the emotionally charged subject matter, adding another layer of complexity to the work. The circular form can be seen as symbolic of wholeness or cyclical time, reinforcing the sense of continuity and interconnectedness present in the depiction of the entwined profiles. Overall, the piece evokes a feeling of quiet intensity, inviting contemplation on themes of human connection, identity, and the delicate balance between individual existence and collective experience.