1971 LВlВgant teigneu Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The drawing presents a figure in profile, rendered with a deliberate lack of precision and a muted palette dominated by ochre, brown, and white chalks on black paper. The subject appears to be a woman, though the features are stylized rather than realistically depicted. Her face is characterized by pronounced cheekbones and a somewhat melancholic expression conveyed through the downturned mouth and slightly furrowed brow. A suggestion of hair is visible atop her head, seemingly cropped short or closely shorn.
The artist has draped the figure in what appears to be a shawl or cloak, which cascades down her body in loose folds. The fabric’s texture is suggested with quick, gestural marks that contribute to the overall sense of fluidity and movement. A significant portion of the composition is occupied by an indistinct form adjacent to the woman – potentially a reflection or another figure – rendered in lighter chalks, creating a ghostly presence alongside her. This secondary form lacks definition, blurring its boundaries with the background and adding a layer of ambiguity to the scene.
The drawing’s format – a vertical rectangle – emphasizes the elongated proportions of the subject, contributing to an impression of fragility or introspection. The artists signature, 2.11.71, is inscribed at the lower right corner, providing a date for the work and anchoring it within a specific timeframe.
Subtextually, the drawing evokes themes of isolation and contemplation. The woman’s posture and facial expression suggest an inward focus, while the indistinct presence beside her hints at a complex relationship or perhaps a sense of being observed. The limited color range and loose rendering style contribute to a somber mood, suggesting a moment of quiet reflection or even sorrow. The ghostly figure could be interpreted as representing memory, loss, or a fragmented self. Overall, the drawing conveys a profound sense of psychological depth through its understated visual language.