1972 Vauvenargues Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The composition presents a constructed landscape dominated by architectural forms and imposing natural features. Here we observe a cluster of buildings arranged around a central tower, seemingly perched on a raised platform or terrace. The structures are rendered with simplified geometric shapes – predominantly rectangles and squares – suggesting an abstracted representation rather than a faithful depiction of reality. A muted palette prevails; the buildings exhibit tones of white, grey, and pale yellow, while the surrounding vegetation is articulated in shades of green and dark brown.
The background is defined by a range of undulating hills or mountains, painted with broad strokes that emphasize their scale and massiveness. These forms are not depicted realistically but rather as simplified planes, contributing to the overall sense of abstraction. The foreground features a low wall or barrier, punctuated by what appear to be stylized trees or shrubs.
The artist’s use of perspective is unconventional; theres a flattening effect that diminishes depth and creates a somewhat disorienting spatial experience. Light appears diffuse and even, without strong contrasts or directional illumination. This contributes to the painting’s overall stillness and quietude.
Subtly, the work conveys a sense of isolation and monumentality. The buildings seem detached from any human presence, suggesting a place removed from everyday life. The imposing scale of the mountains reinforces this feeling of remoteness and grandeur. One might interpret the scene as an exploration of memory or nostalgia – a constructed recollection of a specific location stripped down to its essential forms and colors. The deliberate simplification could also be read as a commentary on the nature of perception, questioning how we construct our understanding of place through visual representation.