1917 Parade – projet pour le costume de lacrobate fВminin Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1908-1918

The drawing presents a female performer in mid-motion, seemingly captured during a leap or acrobatic maneuver. She is depicted with a dynamic posture; one leg extended forward and the other trailing behind, arms outstretched as if maintaining balance or gesturing towards an unseen audience. The figure’s face exhibits a focused expression, suggesting concentration and athleticism.
The costume itself is striking. Its predominantly blue, a color often associated with royalty, stability, and theatricality. A decorative band encircles her waist, adorned with stylized white stars against the blue backdrop – a clear visual reference to a national flag. The lower portion of the garment features fringe detailing that adds movement and emphasizes the performer’s agility. A headband secures her hair, which cascades down her shoulders in loose waves.
The background is minimal; a wash of reddish-orange color provides a simple stage setting without distracting from the central figure. This limited backdrop serves to highlight the costumes design and the performer’s energetic pose. The use of watercolor lends a lightness and fluidity to the work, mirroring the gracefulness implied in the subject matter.
Subtextually, the drawing appears to explore themes of national identity intertwined with performance and spectacle. The flag-like motif suggests a celebration or representation of a nation through artistic expression. The performer’s athleticism speaks to ideals of strength, skill, and perhaps even liberation – a potential commentary on societal roles and expectations for women during the period in which it was created. The overall impression is one of controlled energy and stylized patriotism, presented within the context of theatrical entertainment.