1954 Portrait de Sylvette David 18 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

Here we observe a portrait executed in charcoal and chalk on paper. The subject is a young woman depicted in profile, though her features are fractured and reassembled according to principles that deviate significantly from naturalistic representation. A stark contrast between light and shadow defines the composition, contributing to a sense of dramatic intensity.
The artist has broken down the face into geometric planes – sharp angles dominate the brow, nose, and jawline. These facets appear almost as if they are independent components fitted together rather than forming a cohesive whole. The eyes, positioned high on the forehead, possess an unsettling stillness, conveying a sense of introspection or perhaps detachment. A single strand of hair falls down her cheek, rendered with quick, gestural strokes that contrast with the more deliberate construction of the facial features.
The torso is similarly deconstructed, delineated by a series of intersecting lines that suggest both structure and confinement. The shoulders are angular and elongated, contributing to an overall impression of verticality. A garment, possibly a jacket or blouse, is indicated through simplified shapes and button-like details.
The background is treated with broad, sweeping strokes of charcoal, creating a dense, ambiguous space that seems to press in on the figure. This backdrop does not offer depth but rather serves to emphasize the subject’s isolation. The signature appears in the lower right corner, executed in a confident hand.
Subtly, theres an underlying tension between fragmentation and restraint. While the face is broken down into disparate elements, the lines remain controlled, preventing complete disintegration of form. This suggests a deliberate exploration of perception and representation rather than a purely chaotic expression. The woman’s gaze, directed towards an unseen point beyond the frame, hints at a narrative or internal state that remains elusive to the viewer. Theres a quiet dignity in her posture, despite the distortions applied to her likeness; she seems both vulnerable and resilient within this constructed space.