The artwork “Café in Royan” by Pablo Picasso, created in 1940, is a sketch and study that belongs to the Cubism art movement. It is done in Indian ink on paper and measures 21.5 x 27 cm. This piece exemplifies Picasso’s continued exploration of the Cubist style, which he pioneered.
Examining the artwork, one observes the distinctive use of geometric shapes and fragmented forms characteristic of Cubism. The work depicts an abstract representation of a café scene, possibly set in the French town of Royan. Broad, gestural strokes and a monochromatic palette create a sense of depth and movement, while the overlapping planes suggest the simultaneity of multiple perspectives. The composition is dynamic, and despite its abstraction, there’s an underlying semblance of architectural features and possibly outdoor elements, such as tables or umbrellas, which are common in café settings. The date inscribed within the work evidences Picasso’s direct involvement and serves as a temporal identifier for this piece.
