1912 Verre de Pernod et cartes Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1908-1918

The composition presents a fragmented still life, constructed from geometric planes and intersecting perspectives. A glass, presumably containing Pernod – indicated by the partial visibility of advertising lettering at the top – dominates the central space. It is not rendered realistically; instead, it appears as a series of angular facets, simultaneously viewed from multiple angles. Playing cards are integrated into this fractured arrangement. One card prominently displays a heart suit, its red color providing a stark contrast against the predominantly muted palette.
The artist’s approach to spatial representation defies conventional depth perception. Objects overlap and interpenetrate one another, creating an ambiguous sense of foreground and background. The use of a limited color range – browns, grays, ochres, and touches of green – contributes to a somber, almost melancholic atmosphere.
The inclusion of the advertising lettering suggests a commentary on commercialism and urban life. Pernod was a popular aperitif in Paris at the time, and its presence within the still life could be interpreted as an observation of consumer culture or a reflection of the artist’s surroundings. The playing cards introduce elements of chance, leisure, and perhaps even risk – themes that resonate with the transient nature of modern existence.
The deconstruction of recognizable forms implies a questioning of traditional modes of representation. By dismantling objects into their constituent parts and reassembling them in an unconventional manner, the artist challenges the viewers expectations and invites a more analytical engagement with the subject matter. The overall effect is one of intellectual complexity and formal experimentation, indicative of a shift away from representational art towards abstraction.