1921 Trois femmes Е la fontaine2 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1919-1930

The drawing presents a tightly clustered group of three figures, seemingly female, engaged in an intimate and ambiguous interaction. The composition is dominated by their overlapping forms, creating a sense of closeness and entanglement. The artist employed a limited palette – primarily ochre and black lines on a warm-toned background – which contributes to the works subdued and somewhat melancholic atmosphere.
The figures are rendered with simplified features and elongated necks, characteristic of a style that prioritizes expressive gesture over precise anatomical representation. Their faces exhibit varying degrees of emotional expression; one appears contemplative or sorrowful, another seems to be reaching out, while the third displays a more detached gaze. The overlapping limbs and intertwined hands suggest a complex relationship – perhaps familial, romantic, or simply a shared moment of quiet reflection.
The background is subtly structured with vertical lines that evoke architectural elements, possibly suggesting a classical setting like a portico or fountain. This contextualization lends an air of timelessness to the scene, elevating it beyond a simple depiction of individuals and hinting at broader themes of human connection and vulnerability. The artist’s signature in the lower right corner provides a personal mark within this otherwise anonymous gathering.
The drawings strength lies not in its narrative clarity but in its ability to evoke a mood of quiet introspection and ambiguous relationships. It is less about what is explicitly shown, and more about the emotional resonance generated by the figures’ proximity and their subtly conveyed expressions. The work invites contemplation on themes of connection, isolation, and the complexities inherent within human interaction.