1971 TИte dhomme 91 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

Here we observe a portrait rendered in a style characterized by distortion and expressive brushwork. The subject is a male figure, presented in profile but with a frontal gaze that creates a disconcerting effect. His features are fragmented; the nose appears split into two planes, while the eyes possess an unsettling intensity due to their disproportionate size and placement. A neatly trimmed mustache and goatee suggest a certain formality or perhaps a deliberate attempt at self-presentation. The hair is depicted as thick and swirling, rendered with broad strokes that contribute to the overall sense of dynamism.
The color palette is striking. A vibrant yellow dominates the background, creating an immediate visual impact and isolating the figure within its intensity. This bright hue contrasts sharply with the cooler tones used for the face – a combination of grays, greens, and blues – which lend a pallor and ambiguity to his expression. The blue garment he wears further contributes to this sense of detachment from warmth or vitality.
The artist’s technique emphasizes emotionality over realistic representation. Brushstrokes are visible and assertive, conveying a feeling of urgency or perhaps even agitation. This expressive handling of paint suggests an interest in exploring the psychological state of the subject rather than simply documenting his physical appearance.
Subtexts within this work revolve around themes of identity and fragmentation. The distorted features could be interpreted as a commentary on the instability of self-perception, or a visual representation of internal conflict. The figures direct gaze, despite the disfigurement, suggests an attempt at maintaining composure or projecting an image of strength in the face of inner turmoil. The stark contrast between the vibrant background and the muted tones of the portrait might symbolize a disconnect between outward appearance and inner reality. Ultimately, the painting invites contemplation on the complexities of human identity and the ways in which it can be fractured and reassembled.