1941 Femme Е la collerette bleue (Portrait dInez) Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The portrait presents a woman viewed in three-quarter profile against a dark, nearly monochromatic background. The absence of detailed surroundings directs attention entirely toward the subject and her expression. Her hair, styled with evident care, is swept up and away from her face, revealing a high forehead and emphasizing the structure of her features. A distinct parting creates asymmetry, contributing to an overall sense of quiet complexity.
The artist employed a technique that emphasizes brushstrokes; they are visible across the surface, particularly in rendering the skin tones. This approach lends texture and avoids smooth, idealized representation. The palette is restrained, dominated by cool hues – blues, grays, and browns – with subtle touches of red on her lips and cheeks providing a focal point. A blue collar or band around her neck introduces a contrasting color that draws the eye upward.
The woman’s gaze is directed downward and slightly to the left, conveying an impression of introspection or melancholy. Her expression isnt overtly sorrowful, but rather suggests a quiet reserve, perhaps even a degree of weariness. The slight downturn of her mouth reinforces this feeling.
Considering the period suggested by the work (1941), the portrait carries potential subtexts related to wartime anxieties and personal resilience. The woman’s composed demeanor might be interpreted as an embodiment of stoicism in the face of uncertainty. Her attire, while elegant, lacks ostentation, hinting at a sense of practicality or austerity appropriate for the era.
The deliberate use of shadow and the limited color range contribute to a somber mood, but also create a sense of intimacy. The portrait feels less like a celebratory depiction and more like a private record – a moment captured with sensitivity and restraint.