1954 Portrait de Sylvette David 30 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

The drawing presents a fragmented portrait, executed in charcoal on paper. The subject appears to be a young woman, though her representation is far from conventional. Here we see a figure constructed through angular planes and simplified forms, characteristic of a style that prioritizes conceptual understanding over realistic depiction.
A dominant feature is the apparent division of the face. One side displays a profile view with pronounced brow ridges, dark markings suggesting eyes and mouth, and a distinct nose. The other side presents a frontal perspective, marked by a series of parallel lines indicating volume and form. This juxtaposition immediately establishes a sense of duality or perhaps a fractured identity. It suggests an exploration of perception – how the same individual can be viewed differently depending on the angle or interpretation.
The figure’s neck is elongated and sharply angled, contributing to the overall feeling of distortion. A draped cloth partially obscures one shoulder, adding another layer of complexity. The lines defining this fabric are bold and decisive, creating a sense of weight and volume that contrasts with the more ethereal quality of the facial planes.
The composition lacks depth; the figure is flattened against the background, reinforcing the emphasis on surface and form rather than spatial relationships. This flatness also contributes to a feeling of immediacy – as if the drawing were captured in a fleeting moment of observation or thought. The limited tonal range, achieved through variations in charcoal density, further emphasizes the graphic nature of the work.
Subtly, there’s an underlying tension between the two halves of the face. While seemingly disparate, they are inextricably linked within the same composition. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the complexities of human character – the simultaneous presence of opposing traits or perspectives within a single individual. The drawing doesnt offer easy answers; instead, it invites contemplation about identity, perception, and the multifaceted nature of representation.