The artwork entitled “A horsewoman” by Pablo Picasso dates back to 1905 and is a testament to the artist’s engagement with Naïve Art, or Primitivism. Picasso crafted this piece using gouache on paper, blending rich color with a rudimentary and expressive technique. The dimensions of this genre painting are 60 by 79 centimeters, showcasing a scene that resonates with simplicity and raw artistic vigor.
Depicted in the artwork is a dynamic scene featuring a horse and rider. The horse is illustrated in mid-gallop, its legs captured in a moment of elegant motion. The rider, a woman, appears poised and confident, energetically holding a riding crop above her head. She is depicted bareback on the horse, emphasizing a sense of freedom and oneness with the animal. The color palette is relatively muted with earthy tones dominating the background, while spots of color, particularly the red of the saddle cloth, provide a focal point and imbue the piece with energy and life. The background is understated and sketch-like, hinting at an undefined space that places the full attention on the horsewoman and her mount.
The style is indicative of the Primitivism movement, capturing the raw, intuitive aspects of the subject through simplified forms and a deliberate eschewal of refined, academic techniques. Picasso’s portrayal communicates a directness and immediacy, echoing the untamed spirit associated with both the rider and the animal.