1962 TИte de femme 2 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The composition presents a frontal portrait of a woman, rendered in a style characterized by simplification and distortion. The figure is tightly framed within the rectangular canvas, emphasizing her direct gaze towards the viewer. Her features are abstracted; the nose is elongated and flattened, the eyes large and almond-shaped, and the mouth reduced to a subtle indentation.
The color palette is dominated by warm tones – ochre, yellow, and brown – which imbue the face with an earthy quality. These hues contrast with darker shades used for the hair and outlining of facial features, creating a sense of depth and volume despite the flattened perspective. The application of paint appears vigorous, with visible brushstrokes contributing to the overall textural richness.
The woman’s hair is depicted as a dark mass that partially obscures her forehead and cascades down her shoulders. A band or scarf wraps around her head, further defining the contours of her face and adding another layer of visual complexity. The background is rendered in a similar ochre tone as the skin, blurring the distinction between figure and ground.
The portrait’s subtexts revolve around themes of identity and representation. The stylized features suggest an exploration of archetypal feminine characteristics rather than a specific individual likeness. The directness of her gaze establishes a confrontational relationship with the viewer, inviting introspection on notions of perception and recognition. The limited color range and simplified forms contribute to a sense of emotional restraint, hinting at underlying psychological complexities. There’s a palpable tension between the figures apparent vulnerability – evidenced by the large eyes and softened mouth – and the assertive nature of her direct gaze. This interplay suggests an exploration of female strength and resilience within a framework of stylized representation.

The inscription in the lower right corner, 13.6.62, provides a temporal anchor for the work, situating it firmly within a specific historical context.