1921 Trois femmes Е la fontaine6 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1919-1930

The composition presents three figures arranged around a central, ambiguous form that suggests both a rock formation and a stylized fountain. The color palette is dominated by muted blues, reds, and ochres, contributing to a sense of antiquity or faded memory.
On the left stands a figure draped in a blue garment. Their posture conveys contemplation; one hand rests on their chin while the other gestures outward, as if explaining or questioning something. To their right, another figure, similarly clad, leans slightly forward with an expression that appears melancholic or resigned. The third figure is seated at the base of the structure, facing the viewer. This individual’s pose suggests weariness and a degree of detachment from the interaction between the standing figures.
The artists rendering style evokes classical sculpture, particularly in the simplified forms and idealized features of the individuals. However, the flatness of the composition and the somewhat awkward positioning of the limbs introduce an element of distortion that prevents it from being a straightforward imitation of ancient art. The background is rendered with broad strokes of blue, creating a sense of depth but also contributing to the overall feeling of abstraction.
Subtextually, the work seems to explore themes of communication, isolation, and perhaps disillusionment. The gesture of the figure on the left implies an attempt at explanation or connection, while the responses from the other two suggest either disinterest or a deeper understanding that renders words inadequate. The seated figure’s posture conveys a sense of resignation, as if they have already accepted some unspoken truth.
The ambiguous nature of the central form – is it a natural rock or an artificial fountain? – adds another layer to the interpretation. It could symbolize a source of life and renewal, but its stylized representation suggests that this vitality has been diminished or corrupted. The overall effect is one of quiet introspection, hinting at a narrative just beyond the viewer’s grasp.