1901 Picasso avec partenaire Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

Here we see a drawing depicting two figures in formal attire, seemingly engaged in a close interaction. The composition is vertically oriented and dominated by the central placement of these individuals against a textured background.
The figure on the left is rendered with a more elaborate depiction, sporting an ornate hat adorned with what appears to be a red accent. Their clothing consists of a green garment, loosely draped and suggesting movement or perhaps a sense of theatricality. The face exhibits a stylized quality, hinting at a deliberate exaggeration of features rather than strict realism.
Beside them stands the second figure, clad in a reddish-brown coat and topped with a tall, dark hat – a classic bowler style. This individual’s posture is more rigid, conveying an impression of formality or perhaps restraint compared to their companions more fluid stance. The face here is less detailed, contributing to a sense of anonymity or serving to emphasize the contrast between the two figures.
The background possesses a mottled appearance, with variations in tone and texture that create a visual depth. It appears aged, possibly due to staining or discoloration, which lends an air of historical context or even fragility to the work.
A signature is visible at the top, written in a cursive script, adding another layer of information about the creators presence and ownership. The overall impression suggests a study of character types – perhaps a depiction of a couple from a specific era – rendered with an emphasis on stylized form and expressive color rather than meticulous detail. There’s a sense of fleeting observation captured quickly, as if the artist was documenting a moment in time or a particular social dynamic.