1901 La repasseusse Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

The composition presents a figure engaged in what appears to be domestic labor – specifically, ironing. The subject is positioned at an oblique angle relative to the viewer, creating a sense of immediacy and drawing attention to her posture. Her body is hunched forward, shoulders rounded, suggesting exhaustion or perhaps resignation. The head is bowed, obscuring facial features and contributing to an overall impression of dejection.
The artist employed a limited tonal range, relying heavily on contrasts between light and shadow to define form and create visual interest. This restricted palette contributes to the somber mood of the work. Brushstrokes are visible, adding texture and emphasizing the physicality of the scene. The background is indistinct, further isolating the figure and focusing attention on her labor.
The setting appears to be a modest interior space; a table serves as the ironing surface, and what seems to be a piece of furniture or wall occupies the left side of the frame. These elements are rendered with minimal detail, reinforcing the focus on the woman’s activity and emotional state.
Subtly, the work conveys themes of social class and the often-unseen labor performed by working-class women during this period. The figures posture and expression suggest a life marked by repetitive tasks and physical strain. There is an element of quiet dignity in her dedication to her work, but also a palpable sense of weariness. The obscured face invites contemplation about the individual behind the task – a silent narrative of perseverance and hardship within a specific social context. The composition avoids sentimentality; instead, it offers a stark portrayal of everyday existence for many individuals at the turn of the century.