1971 TИte dhomme 3 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The work presents a fragmented portrait of a man, rendered in a style characterized by angularity and distortion. Here we see a figure dominated by a large, yellow hat that obscures much of the forehead and upper face. The hats shape is simplified, almost geometric, contrasting with the more organic forms of the facial features.
The artist has employed a limited palette, primarily consisting of greens, yellows, whites, blacks, and muted purples. The background is an uneven wash of green, creating a sense of depth while simultaneously flattening the composition. This backdrop contributes to the feeling that the figure exists in a dreamlike or abstracted space.
Facial features are presented in a manner that defies conventional representation. One eye is rendered with stark realism – large and expressive – while the other is reduced to a simple, dark line, suggesting blindness or perhaps an inward gaze. The nose is compressed into a triangular form, and the mouth is suggested by a few decisive strokes. A thick, dark beard adds weight to the lower portion of the face, further emphasizing its angularity.
The use of contrasting colors – the bright yellow hat against the cool greens and whites – draws attention to the figures presence while simultaneously creating visual tension. The brushstrokes are visible, adding a textural quality that reinforces the sense of immediacy and spontaneity.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of identity and perception. The fragmented nature of the face suggests a fractured self, perhaps reflecting an internal struggle or a questioning of established norms. The single, expressive eye could be interpreted as representing a yearning for connection or understanding in a world that feels disjointed. The hat itself might symbolize concealment or a deliberate attempt to mask one’s true identity. Overall, the painting conveys a sense of melancholy and introspection, inviting contemplation on the complexities of human existence.