1901 TИte de Blanche Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1889-1907

The drawing presents a portrait study of a woman, executed in charcoal or graphite on paper. The subject is positioned against a dark background, which emphasizes her form and features through stark contrast. Her gaze is directed forward, conveying a sense of quiet introspection rather than direct engagement with the viewer.
Here we see an elaborate hairstyle dominating the upper portion of the composition. It appears to be constructed from tightly coiled curls arranged in a complex updo, suggesting a deliberate and fashionable presentation. The artist has rendered this hair with vigorous strokes, creating texture and volume that give it a tangible presence.
The woman’s facial features are delicately drawn, though somewhat softened by the medium. Her lips are subtly pursed, hinting at an underlying melancholy or restraint. The eyes, while not intensely expressive, possess a certain depth and complexity. A high collar frames her neck, contributing to a sense of formality and perhaps even constraint.
The artist’s handling of light and shadow is particularly noteworthy. The absence of color focuses attention on the interplay of tones, which defines form and creates a palpable atmosphere. The drawings loose, gestural quality suggests it may be a preparatory study for a larger work, or an exploration of character and mood in its own right.
Subtly, there is a sense of melancholy conveyed through the subject’s expression and posture. The dark palette reinforces this feeling, creating a somber and contemplative tone. Its possible to interpret the portrait as reflecting a moment of quiet reflection within a period characterized by societal expectations and constraints placed upon women.