1920 Homme avec couffin Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1919-1930

Here we see a drawing depicting a man in what appears to be working-class attire. The figure is rendered with quick, gestural lines that emphasize movement and a sense of immediacy. He stands slightly hunched, his posture suggesting weariness or perhaps resignation. A hat obscures much of his hair, while the facial features are sketched with a degree of caricature – notably the prominent mustache and downturned mouth contributing to an expression that could be interpreted as melancholy or cynicism.
The man carries what seems to be a small bag or container in one hand, hinting at a profession involving itinerant work or perhaps charity collection. The lines defining his clothing are loose and somewhat imprecise, further reinforcing the impression of a hasty sketch rather than a meticulously rendered portrait.
The background is minimal, consisting primarily of faint horizontal strokes that suggest a ground plane but offer little contextual information. This lack of detail directs attention solely to the figure himself, amplifying his isolation and emphasizing his individual character. The overall effect evokes a sense of quiet observation – a fleeting glimpse of an ordinary man navigating a difficult existence. Theres a vulnerability conveyed through the simplicity of the drawing style; it feels less like a formal representation and more like a candid moment captured on paper.