1900 La fin du numВro Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

The pastel drawing presents a solitary female figure positioned slightly off-center within the composition. She is rendered in a style characterized by loose, expressive lines and a limited palette dominated by blues, yellows, and browns. The artist has employed a technique that prioritizes capturing movement and atmosphere over precise detail.
Here we see the woman dressed in an elaborate gown of yellow fabric, its folds suggested through rapid strokes of pastel. A high collar, rendered in a contrasting blue hue, draws attention to her neck and emphasizes the formality of her attire. Her posture is somewhat precarious; she appears to be leaning or supporting herself against an unseen structure, which contributes to a sense of instability and perhaps vulnerability.
The background is indistinct, composed of dark blues and blacks that create a shadowy enclosure around the figure. A patch of green appears at the upper right corner, offering a subtle contrast to the prevailing cool tones. The lack of depth in the background flattens the image, directing focus entirely on the woman.
Subtleties within the drawing suggest a narrative beyond a simple portrait. Her gaze is averted, directed downwards and away from the viewer, implying introspection or perhaps a sense of melancholy. The precariousness of her stance could be interpreted as symbolic of societal pressures or personal struggles. The opulent dress, juxtaposed with the somber background and her downcast expression, might hint at a critique of superficiality or the burdens associated with social expectations.
The signature in red ink, located near the bottom right corner, provides a visual anchor within the otherwise fluid composition. It serves as a marker of authorship while also introducing a contrasting color that draws attention to its presence. Overall, the drawing conveys an atmosphere of quiet contemplation and understated drama, inviting viewers to consider the complexities of the woman’s inner world.