1971 TИte dhomme au chapeau Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The work presents a fragmented portrait, executed in watercolor and gouache on paper. Here we observe a figure rendered with a deliberate distortion of anatomical features, characteristic of a Cubist approach. The face is not presented as a unified whole but rather as a collection of planes and angles, overlapping and intersecting to create a sense of simultaneity – multiple perspectives seemingly captured at once.
The color palette is restrained, dominated by earthy tones: browns, ochres, and creams. These hues contribute to a muted atmosphere, avoiding any overt vibrancy that might distract from the formal elements. A band of yellow-gold traverses the forehead, acting as a visual highlight and drawing attention to the brow area. The eye, rendered with stark simplicity – just an oval shape – is positioned off-center, creating a slightly unsettling gaze.
A prominent hat sits atop the head, its form equally fractured and angular. It appears almost architectural in its construction, further emphasizing the geometric breakdown of the figure. The artist has employed broad brushstrokes, leaving visible traces of the application process; this contributes to a sense of immediacy and spontaneity.
Beyond the formal aspects, the painting evokes a feeling of psychological complexity. The fragmentation suggests a fractured identity or a questioning of conventional representation. The hat, often associated with authority or social status, is rendered in such a disjointed manner that it seems to undermine its symbolic power. It could be interpreted as a commentary on societal structures and the ways in which they can distort individual perception.
The overall effect is one of controlled chaos – a deliberate dismantling of traditional portraiture to explore new modes of representation and psychological insight. The work resists easy interpretation, inviting viewers to engage with the ambiguity inherent in its fragmented form.