1939 TИte de figure fВminine (Dora Maar) Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The portrait presents a fragmented female visage rendered in a style characterized by angularity and distortion. The subjects face is deconstructed into geometric planes, disrupting conventional notions of beauty and realism. A prominent yellow structure, possibly a hat or head covering, dominates the upper portion of the composition, its sharp edges contrasting with the softer curves suggested within the facial features.
The eyes are particularly striking; they appear as diamond-shaped forms, positioned asymmetrically and conveying an unsettling intensity. Linear markings radiate from these ocular areas, resembling tears or perhaps stylized lashes, contributing to a sense of emotional distress or vulnerability. The mouth is depicted with a pronounced upward curve, which could be interpreted as either a sardonic smile or a grimace, further complicating the subject’s expression.
A palette of muted browns and greens forms the backdrop, creating a somber atmosphere that emphasizes the figures isolation. A band of blue delineates the neck, while the lower portion suggests a white garment with intricate detailing. The brushwork is visible throughout, adding texture and dynamism to the surface.
Subtextually, the work seems to explore themes of psychological complexity and fractured identity. The disjointed forms suggest an internal struggle or a sense of alienation. The unsettling gaze and ambiguous expression invite contemplation on the nature of perception and representation. It’s possible that the portrait is not intended as a straightforward likeness but rather as an exploration of emotional states through visual distortion, hinting at underlying anxieties or tensions within the subjects character. The overall effect is one of controlled chaos, where beauty is found in the disruption of traditional forms.