1914 Portrait de jeune fille1 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1908-1918

The composition presents a figure rendered in a fractured and fragmented style, dominating a predominantly green field. The subject appears to be a young woman, though her form is deconstructed into geometric planes and overlapping shapes, making precise identification difficult. Her posture suggests seatedness, with the left arm bent at the elbow and the hand positioned near the lap.
The color palette is largely restricted to variations of green, punctuated by areas of brown, black, white, and touches of orange. The pervasive green establishes a somber, almost claustrophobic atmosphere. This tonal consistency contributes to the sense of disorientation inherent in the work’s formal structure.
Several distinct elements populate the background. A classical bust, seemingly detached from its pedestal, is positioned on the left side, partially obscured by the figure and other geometric forms. To the right, a cluster of stylized foliage emerges, adding a touch of organic detail to the otherwise angular composition. Above the figure, a decorative motif resembling swirling patterns or abstract floral elements introduces another layer of visual complexity.
The artist’s technique involves a deliberate dismantling of traditional perspective and spatial relationships. The figure is not presented from a single viewpoint; instead, multiple perspectives are simultaneously displayed, creating a sense of instability and ambiguity. This approach challenges the viewers expectations regarding representation and invites an active engagement with the artworks construction.
Subtly embedded within this formal experimentation lies a potential commentary on identity and perception. The fragmentation of the figure could be interpreted as a reflection of societal upheaval or psychological disintegration. The juxtaposition of classical elements (the bust) with the fractured modern form suggests a tension between tradition and modernity, permanence and transience. The overall effect is one of melancholy and introspection, hinting at an underlying sense of loss or displacement.