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

The artwork presents a portrait study of a man wearing a cap, executed in a style characterized by bold brushstrokes and a limited palette. The subject is depicted from a three-quarter view, angled slightly towards the viewer, which creates a sense of immediacy and engagement. His gaze is direct, almost confrontational, contributing to this feeling.
The artist employed a restricted color scheme dominated by shades of gray, blue, and white. This monochromatic approach emphasizes form and texture over vibrant coloration, lending the portrait a somber and introspective quality. The application of paint is vigorous; visible brushstrokes define the contours of the face, cap, and beard, adding a tactile dimension to the work.
The man’s features are rendered with a degree of distortion, characteristic of an expressive rather than strictly representational approach. His nose is elongated and prominent, his eyes large and somewhat exaggerated, and his beard thick and roughly textured. These distortions do not detract from the portraits recognizability but instead contribute to its emotional intensity. The cap sits squarely on his head, casting a shadow that further defines the planes of his face.
The background is a pale blue, applied with broad strokes that lack detail, serving primarily as a neutral space against which the figure stands out. A dark border frames the composition, isolating the subject and intensifying the focus on his presence.
Subtly, there’s an impression of weariness or stoicism conveyed through the mans expression and posture. The direct gaze suggests resilience, while the simplified forms and muted colors evoke a sense of quiet contemplation. One might interpret this as a study not just of physical appearance but also of character – a portrayal of someone marked by experience and perhaps hardship. The overall effect is one of understated dignity and psychological depth.