“Bull (plate III)” is an artwork by Pablo Picasso, created in 1945. This lithograph on paper is a part of the “Eleven developments of a lithograph” series and exemplifies the Expressionism movement. With dimensions of 32.1 x 43.2 cm, this animal painting is housed in the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), located in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork portrays a bull in a stylized and simplified manner that captures the essence and spirit of the animal rather than a photorealistic representation. The bull stands bold and robust with its massive body and characteristic horns that denote strength and virility. Picasso’s use of lithography allows for stark contrasts between the darks and lights within the piece, resulting in a dynamic and textured portrayal. The background is minimally detailed, directing the viewer’s focus primarily to the animal’s form. The piece’s expressive lines and shapes resonate with the Expressionist aim to evoke emotion and offer a subjective perspective. Overall, “Bull (plate III)” showcases Picasso’s exploration of form and his ability to distill complexity into seemingly effortless representations.
