1967 Laubade 2 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The composition presents a fragmented scene dominated by two figures: one playing a horn and another reclining in what appears to be a state of repose or vulnerability. The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing shades of green, grey, white, and ochre, contributing to an overall somber atmosphere.
Here we see the figure with the horn positioned above the other, their posture suggesting a hierarchical relationship or perhaps a moment of performance directed towards the reclining individual. The musician’s face is rendered in simplified planes, characteristic of a style that prioritizes expressive distortion over realistic representation. The instrument itself appears elongated and almost surreal, its form echoing the angularity present throughout the painting.
The lower figure occupies a significant portion of the canvas. Their body is depicted with an emphasis on curves and rounded forms, contrasting sharply with the more geometric rendering of the musician above. A large hand, rendered in muted tones, extends towards the viewer, creating a sense of invitation or perhaps a plea for connection. The eyes are prominent, conveying a feeling of introspection or melancholy.
The background is ambiguous, composed of swirling brushstrokes that suggest depth but offer no concrete spatial information. This lack of grounding further emphasizes the figures and their interaction. A band of ochre at the bottom provides a visual anchor, while the upper portion fades into a pale blue-grey sky.
Subtexts within this work seem to revolve around themes of power dynamics, vulnerability, and communication. The musician’s elevated position and the act of playing – a form of performance or declaration – could be interpreted as representing authority or dominance. Conversely, the reclining figures posture and exposed state suggest a sense of submission or fragility. The outstretched hand introduces an element of human connection, hinting at a desire for empathy or understanding across this perceived divide.
The painting’s fragmented style and distorted forms contribute to a feeling of unease and psychological complexity. It is not merely a depiction of two figures; it seems to explore the nuances of their relationship and the underlying emotional currents that bind them together.