1944 Femme Е la broche en tИte de sphinx Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

The composition presents a frontal portrait of a woman rendered in a style characterized by angularity and distortion. The face is dominated by large, disproportionate features: prominent eyes with heavy lids, a bulbous nose, and full lips compressed into a tight-lipped expression. These elements contribute to an overall sense of unease and psychological intensity.
The color palette is striking. A vibrant yellow headscarf, edged with red, frames the face, contrasting sharply with the cool blue tones of the garment she wears. Patches of green suggest hair escaping from beneath the scarf. The skin tone appears flushed, particularly around the eyes and cheeks, adding to the feeling of heightened emotion or stress.
A significant detail is the brooch affixed prominently at the center of her chest. Its intricate design, rendered in gold tones, draws immediate attention. It seems almost symbolic, perhaps representing a burden or an emblem of authority – or both. The placement on the chest suggests vulnerability and exposure.
The background is minimal, consisting of a pale, indistinct plane that serves to isolate the figure and intensify her presence. Theres a sense of confinement within this space.
Beyond a straightforward depiction, the work seems to explore themes of identity, constraint, and perhaps even suffering. The woman’s expression suggests an internal struggle or a forced composure. The exaggerated features could be interpreted as a visual representation of psychological pressure or trauma. The brooch, acting as a focal point, might symbolize societal expectations or imposed roles that weigh heavily upon the individual. Overall, the painting conveys a powerful sense of emotional complexity and latent tension.