1955 Portrait de Jacqueline Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

The composition presents a figure rendered in monochrome shades of gray and black, executed with visible brushstrokes that contribute to a sense of immediacy and raw emotion. Here we see a portrait, though conventional notions of representation are significantly disrupted through fragmentation and abstraction. The subject’s face is deconstructed into geometric planes; the nose is sharply angled, the eyes are large and almond-shaped, conveying an intensity that borders on melancholy. A prominent angular form extends from the forehead, acting as both a stylized depiction of hair and a compositional element that divides the face further.
The artist has employed a limited palette to emphasize tonal variations and create depth through shading. The lack of color contributes to a somber mood, suggesting introspection or perhaps even a sense of confinement. The figure’s shoulders are indicated with broad strokes, merging into an ambiguous garment which appears more as a series of overlapping planes than defined clothing. This flattening effect reinforces the overall two-dimensionality of the work.
Subtleties in the brushwork reveal a tension between control and spontaneity. While the geometric forms suggest deliberate construction, the visible texture of the paint hints at a more impulsive creative process. The subject’s gaze is direct, yet seemingly detached, creating an unsettling ambiguity about her emotional state. This disconnect invites contemplation on themes of identity, perception, and the complexities of human expression. The portrait seems to explore not just the likeness of a person but also the very nature of representation itself, questioning how we construct meaning through visual forms.