1961 Femme au chapeau1 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

The composition presents a seated figure, rendered in a fragmented and angular style. The subject appears to be a woman, though her features are abstracted and reassembled into a non-naturalistic form. A prominent hat, also constructed from geometric planes, dominates the upper portion of the image, its green hues contrasting with the predominantly blue tones of the figure’s attire.
The artist has employed a limited palette, primarily utilizing shades of blue, green, brown, and ochre. These colors are applied in flat, unmodulated areas, contributing to the overall sense of two-dimensionality. The use of color is not descriptive but rather expressive, serving to emphasize the formal qualities of the composition.
The figure’s posture suggests a state of introspection or melancholy. Her head is tilted downwards, and her gaze appears directed inward. The hands are clasped in front of her, further reinforcing this impression of quiet contemplation. The chair upon which she sits is similarly fragmented, its back rendered as a series of angular planes that echo the geometric structure of the figure’s form.
The works subtexts revolve around themes of identity and perception. By deconstructing the human form into discrete elements, the artist challenges conventional notions of representation. The fractured nature of the image suggests a sense of psychological fragmentation or alienation. It is possible to interpret this as an exploration of the complexities of female identity within a patriarchal society, where women are often objectified and reduced to fragmented representations.
The deliberate distortion of perspective and the flattening of space create a sense of unease and ambiguity. The viewer is denied a clear understanding of the subject’s emotional state or her relationship to the surrounding environment. This lack of clarity invites multiple interpretations and encourages a deeper engagement with the works underlying themes.