1914 Bouteille et verre avec tranche de citron Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1908-1918

The composition presents a still life rendered in a fractured and fragmented style. Here we observe a central arrangement seemingly composed of geometric forms that suggest a bottle, a glass, and a slice of lemon. However, these objects are not depicted realistically; instead, they are broken down into planes and facets, viewed from multiple perspectives simultaneously. The artist has eschewed traditional perspective, opting for an approach that deconstructs the subject matter and reassembles it on the canvas in a non-naturalistic manner.
The color palette is dominated by ochres, yellows, browns, and blacks, creating a muted and somewhat somber atmosphere. These earthy tones contribute to a sense of weightiness and solidity despite the fragmented nature of the forms. The application of paint appears deliberate, with visible brushstrokes adding texture and emphasizing the physicality of the medium.
The circular framing of the image is striking. It draws attention to the contained arrangement within, suggesting a vignette or a snapshot of a moment in time. This framing also contributes to a sense of isolation and introspection. The dark background further intensifies this effect, pushing the focus entirely onto the still life.
Subtly embedded within the geometric structure are traces of lettering – N.S. – which appear as fragmented markings integrated into the composition. Their presence introduces an element of enigma; they could be initials, a signature, or perhaps symbolic elements whose meaning remains open to interpretation.
The overall effect is one of intellectual rigor and formal experimentation. The artist seems less interested in representing the objects themselves than in exploring the possibilities of visual language – how shapes, colors, and perspectives can be manipulated to create new meanings and experiences for the viewer. Theres a sense of melancholy or quiet contemplation conveyed through the subdued palette and the deconstructed forms; it suggests a world viewed through a lens of disillusionment or profound introspection.