1961 Le dВjeuner sur lherbe (Manet) 10 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

The composition presents a group of figures situated within what appears to be a densely wooded area. The palette is dominated by muted greens and blacks, creating a somber and somewhat claustrophobic atmosphere. Three human forms are discernible; one female figure, nude and seated on the left, occupies a prominent position in the foreground. Her posture suggests both vulnerability and composure. To her right, two male figures are arranged closely together, their bodies partially obscured by shadow and foliage. Their faces are rendered with simplified features, emphasizing profile views that contribute to an overall sense of detachment.
The artist employed broad brushstrokes and a lack of precise detail, which lends the work a raw and expressive quality. The background is suggested rather than fully depicted, consisting primarily of dark, swirling shapes that evoke the density of the surrounding vegetation. A dog rests at the lower edge of the composition, its form similarly simplified and integrated into the overall design.
The arrangement of the figures suggests an intimate gathering, yet a sense of unease pervades the scene. The female figure’s nudity is presented without overt sensuality; instead, it seems to function as a formal element within the composition, contributing to the works unsettling nature. The muted color scheme and simplified forms contribute to a feeling of ambiguity, leaving the viewer to interpret the relationships between the figures and the context of their encounter. There’s an implication of transgression or unconventional behavior, subtly hinted at through the juxtaposition of nudity and social interaction within a natural setting. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation tinged with a sense of disquiet.