1967 Visage Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The drawing presents a stylized portrait rendered in thick black lines against a plain background. The artist has opted for a simplified representation of the human face, prioritizing expressive gesture over precise anatomical detail. Here we see a frontal view, though the perspective is distorted and flattened.
The eyes are prominent, depicted as large ovals with minimal detailing within, conveying an intensity or perhaps a sense of vulnerability. They dominate the upper portion of the composition, drawing immediate attention. The nose is reduced to a single, elongated line that curves downwards, contributing to the overall asymmetry. A sparse mustache and beard are indicated by jagged lines, adding texture and further disrupting any semblance of naturalism.
The mouth is suggested through a series of short, broken strokes, conveying an impression of tension or suppressed emotion. The hair is rendered as a chaotic mass of upward-reaching lines, creating a sense of agitation or unrestrained energy. The overall effect is one of fragmentation and psychological complexity.
Subtly, the drawing seems to explore themes of identity and perception. The deliberate distortion of facial features suggests an attempt to move beyond superficial representation, perhaps probing deeper into the subjects inner state. The stark contrast between the black lines and the white background amplifies the emotional impact, creating a sense of isolation or confinement.
The date inscribed at the bottom right corner – 27.9.67 – provides a temporal anchor, situating the work within a specific historical context, potentially reflecting anxieties or social upheavals prevalent during that period. The drawing’s simplicity and directness suggest an urgency in its creation, as if capturing a fleeting moment of insight or emotional turmoil.