1954 Portrait de Sylvette David 04 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

The drawing presents a female figure in profile, rendered in a stark monochrome palette. Here we observe a deliberate simplification of form; anatomical details are suggested rather than meticulously depicted. The subjects face is elongated, with prominent cheekbones and a somewhat melancholic expression conveyed through the downturned mouth and averted gaze. Her hair, pulled back into a high ponytail, dominates the upper portion of the composition, its flowing strands rendered with energetic, almost frantic lines that contrast with the more controlled contours of her facial features.
The torso is similarly stylized, emphasizing the curve of the ribcage and the suggestion of breasts through broad planes of shading. The artist placed the figure seated on a chair, indicated by the angular backrest visible behind her. Her hands are clasped around an object – likely a tool or utensil – held close to her body, adding a sense of introspection or perhaps even vulnerability.
The drawing’s aesthetic is characterized by a raw immediacy; the marks appear spontaneous and unrefined. The use of heavy shading creates a dramatic contrast between light and shadow, contributing to a feeling of emotional intensity. This technique also flattens the picture plane, minimizing any illusion of depth.
Subtly, theres an underlying tension present in the work. While the subject appears passive, her posture and expression hint at a deeper complexity. The starkness of the monochrome palette removes color as a potential distraction, forcing attention onto the form and emotional state of the figure. It suggests a focus on essence rather than superficial appearance. The drawing seems to explore themes of introspection, vulnerability, and perhaps even a quiet defiance conveyed through her averted gaze.