1899-1900 Autoportrait noir et blanc Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

The drawing presents a frontal portrait executed in charcoal or graphite on paper. The subject is depicted from the chest upwards, occupying nearly the entire frame. A dark scarf or shawl drapes loosely around the shoulders and neck, its texture rendered with quick, expressive strokes that contrast with the smoother shading of the face.
Here we see a young man, his gaze directed slightly off-center, conveying an impression of introspection rather than direct engagement. The eyes are particularly striking; they possess a certain intensity, yet also suggest weariness or melancholy. The artist has employed subtle variations in tone to define the planes of the face, emphasizing the prominence of the cheekbones and the slight asymmetry of the features. A shadow falls across the right side of the face, deepening the sense of introspection and adding visual complexity.
The hair is cropped short and neatly styled, a detail that contributes to the overall impression of restraint and formality. The background is largely undefined, allowing the viewer’s attention to remain focused on the subjects countenance.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of physical features, the drawing seems to explore themes of identity and self-scrutiny. The directness of the gaze, combined with the somber palette and the slightly downturned mouth, suggests a moment of quiet contemplation or perhaps even a subtle expression of vulnerability. The artists choice of medium – charcoal – lends a raw, immediate quality to the work, enhancing its emotional impact. It is not merely a likeness but an attempt at capturing something deeper about the sitter’s inner state.