1968 Mousquetaire Е la coupe et nu couchВ Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The drawing presents a juxtaposition of two figures within a confined space, delineated by thick, dark lines that define their forms and create a sense of enclosure. On the left, a reclining nude is depicted with exaggerated features – a large eye dominates the face, while the body appears elongated and simplified to essential shapes. The figure’s posture suggests vulnerability and exposure.
To the right, a man in what seems to be historical military attire holds aloft a stemmed glass. His facial expression conveys a mixture of contemplation and perhaps amusement, his mustache prominently displayed. He is seated, legs crossed, presenting an air of authority or leisure that contrasts with the exposed nature of the figure beside him.
The artist’s use of line work is particularly striking; it isnt employed for subtle shading but rather to define contours and create a graphic quality. The absence of detailed rendering contributes to a sense of immediacy and sketch-like spontaneity. A faint, reddish hue washes over parts of the composition, adding warmth and softening the starkness of the black lines.
Subtextually, the pairing of these figures suggests a complex relationship – one of observation, perhaps even power dynamics. The nude’s exposed state could be interpreted as representing vulnerability or societal critique, while the mans posture and gesture imply a detached perspective. The glass he holds might symbolize indulgence, contemplation, or a ritualistic act observed by the reclining figure.
The date inscribed in the upper right corner – 27.2.68 – provides a temporal anchor, situating the work within a specific historical context that could inform interpretations of its themes and symbolism. The overall impression is one of deliberate ambiguity, inviting viewers to construct their own narratives around this unusual pairing.