The painting Portrait of Pablo Picasso was created by Juan Gris in 1912 during the height of the Cubism movement. Gris, who was a friend of Picasso and Braque, participated in developing the artistic style and was known as one of the major figures in Cubism. The portrait depicts Picasso in Cubist style, holding a palette, and taking up most of the space on the canvas.
This artwork is an example of Analytical Cubism, which was pioneered by Picasso. Analytical Cubism was characterized by the breaking down of an image into its various components, which were then reconstructed in a new way to create a unique interpretation. The portrait of Picasso is a prime example of this technique, as the face and body of the subject are fragmented and presented from multiple viewpoints.
In 1912, Gris exhibited his artwork at the Barcelona Exposicio d’Art Cubista. This event was significant in the Cubism movement as it brought together various artists, including Gris, Picasso, and Braque. The exhibition showcased the various facets of Cubism, which had become an influential artistic movement in Europe. The portrait of Picasso by Gris is a testament to the revolutionary nature of Cubism, demonstrating how this style challenged traditional artistic conventions and paved the way for new forms of expression.