1964 Homme barbu Е la cigarette et son modКle Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

Here we observe a drawing executed in colored pencil, presenting two figures within a defined space. A seated man occupies the right portion of the composition; he is depicted with a pronounced beard and wearing what appears to be a dark cap or hat. He holds a cigarette between his fingers, the smoke curling upwards towards the upper edge of the frame. The figure’s posture suggests a degree of relaxation, though an underlying tension can be detected in the set of his jaw and the directness of his gaze.
To his left sits a female figure, partially nude. Her body is rendered with broad strokes of green and purple, highlighting the contours of her form. She rests on what seems to be a patterned cushion or surface, its design composed of small, repeated motifs. The woman’s expression conveys a sense of melancholy or introspection; her eyes are large and shadowed, contributing to an overall feeling of vulnerability. A strand of hair falls across her face, partially obscuring one eye.
The background is loosely defined with vertical lines suggesting architectural elements – possibly windows or partitions. These lines contribute to the drawing’s flattened perspective, characteristic of a particular artistic style. The color palette is vibrant and somewhat unconventional; the use of purple for skin tones and orange for clothing creates an immediate visual impact.
Subtleties within the work suggest a narrative beyond a simple portrait. The mans gesture with the cigarette could be interpreted as a sign of contemplation or perhaps even anxiety. The woman’s pose, combined with her expression, hints at a complex emotional state – possibly resignation, sadness, or quiet defiance. The proximity of the two figures implies an intimate relationship, yet there is a palpable distance between them, conveyed through their differing postures and gazes.
The drawings style, characterized by simplified forms and expressive color application, lends itself to an exploration of psychological themes rather than a purely representational depiction. It seems less concerned with precise anatomical accuracy and more focused on conveying mood and atmosphere. The patterned cushion beneath the woman might symbolize confinement or a decorative facade masking deeper feelings. Overall, the drawing presents a moment suspended in time, rich with unspoken narratives and emotional undertones.