1970 TИte de matador Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The composition presents a close-up portrait, dominated by a figure seemingly encased in elaborate headwear and attire. The face itself is rendered with a palpable sense of distortion; features are exaggerated and appear almost grotesque, the skin tones shifting between shades of purple, grey, and sickly yellow. A single, centrally placed eye stares directly forward, conveying an unsettling intensity.
The artist employed a thick impasto technique throughout, creating a textured surface that emphasizes the physicality of the paint itself. Brushstrokes are visible and energetic, contributing to a sense of immediacy and raw emotion. The background is defined by broad swaths of yellow, which contrast sharply with the muted palette of the figure’s face and clothing. This vibrant backdrop serves to isolate the subject, intensifying its presence within the frame.
The costume elements – the elaborate hat adorned with orange vertical bands, the red fabric draped across the shoulders, and the dangling cords – suggest a ceremonial or performative context. The overall effect evokes a sense of theatricality, but one tinged with unease. The distortion of the facial features hints at an underlying vulnerability or psychological distress beneath the surface of this elaborate presentation.
The work seems to explore themes of identity, disguise, and the potential for both spectacle and suffering within ritualized roles. It is possible to interpret the figure as a commentary on constructed personas, where external appearances mask internal complexities. The unsettling nature of the portrait invites contemplation about the fragility of selfhood and the performative aspects inherent in human interaction.