The artwork titled “Cubist Composition – Portrait of a Seated Person Holding a Letter” is attributed to the artist Salvador Dali, dating back to 1923. This Cubism movement piece is executed using oil on cardboard, measuring 74.6 by 52.1 cm. Characterized as a portrait, the artwork is currently housed at the Dalí Theatre and Museum in Figueres, Spain.
The artwork reflects the early 20th-century avant-garde art movement of Cubism, characterized by the deconstruction and reassemblage of objects to create an abstract and multifaceted perspective of the subject. In keeping with this style, the subject, ostensibly a seated individual holding a correspondence, is portrayed through geometric shapes and planes that intersect and overlap. The coherent fragmentation suggests form and depth, allowing viewers to discern the seated figure and the letter despite the non-representational approach. The color palette appears subdued, relying heavily on a range of greens, possibly to evoke a calm yet compelling atmosphere. The composition demonstrates the skillful use of light and shadow to lend weight and structure within the Cubist aesthetic. Overall, the artwork captures the essence of the subject while embodying the revolutionary principles of its artistic period.