1965 Laubade 2 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The composition presents a scene dominated by two figures engaged in a peculiar interaction. A male figure, rendered in shades of blue and white, is positioned on the left side of the canvas, his body contorted as he raises a large brass instrument – likely a trumpet or horn – to his lips. His eyes are wide, conveying an expression that could be interpreted as either intense concentration or distress. The instrument itself appears disproportionately large, almost overwhelming his form and contributing to a sense of distortion.
To the right, a female figure reclines in a posture suggestive of vulnerability or resignation. Her skin tones lean towards green and blue, echoing the palette of the male figure but with a softer, more muted quality. She gazes off to the side, her expression seemingly detached from the activity unfolding before her. The artist has fragmented both figures, employing angular planes and simplified forms characteristic of a Cubist approach. This fracturing disrupts conventional notions of perspective and realism, emphasizing instead an exploration of form and spatial relationships.
The background is rendered in broad strokes of green, yellow, and red, creating a vibrant yet unsettling atmosphere. These colors are not used naturalistically; rather, they contribute to the overall sense of emotional tension and visual disorientation. A spiral motif appears on the female figure’s lower right side, adding another layer of symbolic complexity – perhaps representing cyclical patterns or an internal psychological state.
The interaction between the two figures is ambiguous. Is the music being played for her? Does she find it pleasing or distressing? The lack of direct engagement and the fragmented representation prevent a straightforward interpretation. One might infer a commentary on communication, perhaps suggesting a disconnect between individuals despite physical proximity. Alternatively, the scene could be read as an exploration of power dynamics – the male figure’s forceful action contrasting with the female figures passive acceptance. Ultimately, the painting resists easy categorization, inviting viewers to contemplate its layered meanings and unsettling visual language.