1971 Buste dhomme Е la flute Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

Here we observe a portrait rendered in a fragmented and stylized manner. The subject is presented as a bust, turned slightly towards the viewer, holding what appears to be a flute. A palpable sense of angularity dominates the composition; features are not smoothly defined but rather constructed from intersecting planes and sharp lines.
The face itself is characterized by an asymmetry that disrupts conventional notions of beauty or likeness. One eye is rendered with considerable detail, appearing large and somewhat melancholic, while the other is suggested through a simplified form. The nose is reduced to a series of geometric shapes, and the mouth is depicted as a narrow slit, conveying a sense of restraint or perhaps introspection. A prominent brow line contributes to an overall impression of seriousness or even severity.
The figure’s attire adds another layer of complexity. A hat with a broad brim sits atop his head, its form echoing the angularity of the face. Vertical bands of color – red and black – descend from the hat, framing the facial features and creating a sense of confinement. The clothing appears to be adorned with decorative motifs, though their precise nature is obscured by the artist’s expressive brushwork.
The flute held in his hands is rendered with a similar degree of abstraction; its form is elongated and simplified, almost dissolving into the surrounding space. This gesture introduces an element of potential tranquility or contemplation, contrasting with the somewhat austere presentation of the face.
Color plays a crucial role in shaping the mood of the work. A palette dominated by ochre, yellow, red, black, and white creates a sense of warmth tempered by stark contrasts. The application of paint is vigorous and gestural, contributing to the overall feeling of dynamism and emotional intensity.
Subtly, theres an exploration of identity and representation at play. The fractured nature of the figure suggests a questioning of traditional portraiture and a move towards a more subjective or psychological depiction. The combination of formality (the bust format) with abstraction hints at a tension between societal expectations and individual expression. Ultimately, the work invites contemplation on themes of perception, memory, and the complexities of human character.