1921 Femme Е la fontaine Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1919-1930

The drawing presents a seated female figure, rendered in muted tones of gray, brown, and white pastel on paper. She occupies a central position, perched upon what appears to be a roughly hewn stone or rock formation. The artist has employed loose, gestural strokes to define the form, prioritizing an impressionistic quality over precise detail.
The woman’s posture is one of introspection, perhaps even melancholy. Her head is tilted slightly downward, her gaze directed towards her hands which are clasped together in her lap. One hand rests upon her thigh, while the other gently supports her chin, a gesture that conveys pensiveness or weariness. The hair cascades around her face and shoulders in thick, unruly waves, further contributing to an air of vulnerability and emotional complexity.
The simplicity of her garment – a loose-fitting tunic or dress – draws attention to the figure’s form rather than any ostentatious display of wealth or status. Her bare feet are visible below the hem of the dress, grounding her within the natural setting suggested by the rock she occupies. The background is indistinct, a wash of gray that serves to isolate the woman and intensify the focus on her emotional state.
The composition suggests themes of solitude and contemplation. The rough texture of the stone contrasts with the softness of the figure’s flesh, creating a visual tension that mirrors an internal struggle. Theres a sense of quiet resilience in her posture; despite the evident sadness, she remains composed and grounded. The drawing evokes a feeling of intimacy, as if the viewer is privy to a private moment of reflection. It speaks to the complexities of human emotion and the solace found within oneself, even amidst hardship or uncertainty.