1963 LВtreinte III Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The drawing presents a tightly interwoven composition of two figures engaged in an intimate embrace. The artist has rendered the scene using dense, cross-hatched lines that create a sense of both texture and confinement. There is little space between the bodies; they appear almost fused together, their limbs tangled and overlapping.
Here we see one figure lying on its back, partially obscured by the other’s form. The upper body of this individual is turned towards the viewer, revealing a face that appears to be in a state of emotional intensity – perhaps anguish or profound sorrow. The features are rendered with sharp, agitated lines, contributing to an overall feeling of distress.
The second figure lies atop the first, its posture suggesting both dominance and vulnerability. Its arm wraps around the head of the other, while a leg drapes across their body. This positioning creates a visual hierarchy that complicates the narrative; it is difficult to discern who holds power in this interaction. The lines used to depict this figure are similarly frantic, though perhaps slightly less pronounced than those defining the face of the lower individual.
The artist’s use of line work establishes a claustrophobic atmosphere. The density of the hatching creates a visual barrier around the figures, isolating them from any external context. This reinforces the sense that the scene is intensely personal and private.
Subtly, theres an ambiguity to the interaction. While it appears to be an embrace, the expressions and body language suggest something more complex than simple affection. The tension in the lines hints at a struggle, or perhaps a deep emotional burden being shared between these individuals. It is possible that the drawing explores themes of dependency, confinement, or even suffering within the context of intimacy.
The signature in the lower right corner provides a sense of authorship and authenticity to this intensely personal depiction.