1943 Nature morte au gruyКre Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

The composition presents a still life arranged on a table surface that dominates the lower portion of the canvas. The tabletop itself is rendered in a series of angular planes, creating a sense of fractured perspective and spatial ambiguity. A limited palette of ochre, black, white, and grey defines the objects and background, contributing to a somber and restrained atmosphere.
Several recognizable forms are discernible within this fragmented arrangement: what appears to be a musical instrument – possibly a trumpet or horn – occupies the left foreground; a bottle with a long neck rises from behind it; a bowl filled with irregular shapes, likely representing cheese cubes, sits centrally; and a dark, angular form resembling a wine glass is positioned towards the right. These objects are not depicted realistically but rather broken down into geometric components and reassembled in a manner that challenges conventional notions of depth and volume.
The artist’s use of overlapping planes and sharp angles creates a sense of visual tension and dynamism. The light source seems to emanate from an undefined location, casting shadows that further distort the forms and contribute to the overall feeling of disorientation. There is a deliberate flattening of space; objects appear simultaneously close and distant, defying traditional perspective rules.
Beyond the formal elements, the painting evokes a sense of melancholy and introspection. The muted color scheme and fractured composition might suggest a response to the historical context of its creation – a period marked by conflict and upheaval. The still life genre itself, traditionally associated with domestic tranquility and abundance, is here presented in a manner that subverts these expectations. The objects are not celebratory but rather appear isolated and fragmented, perhaps reflecting a sense of loss or disruption.
The arrangement feels deliberate, almost staged, yet the lack of clear narrative leaves room for multiple interpretations. It’s possible to read this as an exploration of perception, memory, or the fragility of everyday life in times of crisis. The artist seems less interested in representing objects literally than in exploring their underlying structures and symbolic potential.