1958 TИte de minotaure Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

Here we see a portrait rendered in a limited palette of browns and tans, executed with a dynamic, almost frantic energy. The subject is presented head-on, dominating the composition. A sense of unease pervades the work; its not immediately clear if this is intended as a depiction of suffering or madness.
The face itself is highly stylized, verging on caricature. Exaggerated features – particularly the large, swirling eyes and prominent nose – contribute to an unsettling effect. The brow line is heavy and furrowed, suggesting distress or intense concentration. A thick, almost bristling growth covers the top of the head, resembling a chaotic crown or perhaps a symbol of confinement.
The artist employed loose, gestural brushstrokes that create a sense of movement and instability. Lines are not clean but rather waver and overlap, adding to the feeling of agitation. The lack of shading creates a flattened effect, emphasizing the graphic nature of the image. This stylistic choice contributes to the overall impression of psychological intensity.
The subject’s expression is difficult to decipher definitively; it could be interpreted as anguish, bewilderment, or even a manic glee. The ambiguity invites multiple readings and suggests an exploration of complex emotional states. The signature at the bottom right corner appears hastily scrawled, further reinforcing the sense of urgency and spontaneity that characterizes the work.
The overall effect is one of psychological turmoil, hinting at themes of isolation, anxiety, or perhaps a descent into madness. Its a portrait not of physical appearance but rather of an internal state – a glimpse into a troubled mind.