1972 TИte de mousquetaire 2 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The composition presents a figure rendered in a fragmented and stylized manner. Here we observe a portrait-like arrangement, though conventional notions of representation are significantly disrupted. The subject is dominated by a large, elaborate hat, its form constructed from angular planes and varying shades of green and grey. This headwear obscures much of the upper portion of the face, creating an immediate sense of formality or perhaps even disguise.
The facial features themselves are simplified to essential elements: two prominent eyes stare directly outward, conveying a feeling of intense scrutiny. A broad nose and a tightly compressed mouth contribute to an expression that is difficult to decipher – it could be interpreted as stoic, melancholic, or subtly defiant. The skin tone appears to be a pale pinkish hue, contrasted by darker shading around the eyes and along the jawline. A band of red crosses the forehead, adding another layer of visual complexity.
The figure’s attire consists of what seems to be a dark jacket or coat, rendered with broad brushstrokes that suggest texture without precise detail. Around the neck, a ruffled collar adds a touch of historical allusion, hinting at a period costume or theatrical presentation.
The background is divided into two distinct zones: a pale blue-grey on the left and a deeper, more saturated blue on the right. These contrasting colors create a sense of spatial ambiguity and contribute to the overall feeling of disorientation. The brushwork throughout the painting is loose and expressive, with visible strokes that emphasize the materiality of the paint itself.
Subtextually, the work seems preoccupied with themes of identity and perception. The obscured face and elaborate costume suggest a constructed persona, raising questions about authenticity and representation. The direct gaze challenges the viewer to engage with the subject on an emotional level, while the fragmented forms disrupt any easy understanding or categorization. There’s a sense of theatricality present, as if we are witnessing a character from a play or historical tableau. The overall effect is one of controlled distortion, where recognizable elements are manipulated to create a psychologically charged and visually arresting image.