The artwork titled “Dinner time (Evocation of Horta d’Ebre)” is a creation of the renowned artist Pablo Picasso, dating back to the year 1903. This piece is a watercolor on paper, reflecting the Naïve Art movement, specifically Primitivism, and is categorized within the genre painting domain. Picasso’s work from this period often embeds a strong emotional component and narrative.
In the artwork, one witnesses a scene of domestic intimacy and simplicity. The composition centers around three figures gathered around a rudimentary wooden table. A male figure sits at one end of the table, seen from the back, engaging in the act of eating from a bowl. His posture and the manner in which he holds his spoon suggest a casual, unpretentious setting. Adjacent to him, at the opposite end of the table, is a child, whose face is turned towards the viewer. The child’s expression is neutral, and the figure is similarly occupied with the contents of their bowl.
Between them stands a woman, presumably serving or assisting in the meal. Her body leans slightly forward, indicating movement, and her attention is directed towards the child, creating an intimate, nurturing atmosphere. All three figures are rendered in muted tones with light, sketchy lines, which give the artwork an ephemeral and delicate quality.
The background is characterized by a sparse interior environment, suggesting a humble abode. The presence of a picture on the wall, an open window partition, and a cauldron hanging beside the table adds to the rustic nature of the scene. The artwork captures a moment of everyday life, unadorned and genuine, offering a glimpse into the private sphere of its subjects.
The palette is soft, predominantly using washed-out hues, which contributes to the overall feeling of tranquility and ordinariness. Picasso’s loose, fluid brushstrokes convey a sense of immediacy and directness in his portrayal of the figures and setting. Despite its simplicity, the artwork conveys a rich narrative about the subjects’ lives and the time and place in which they are set.
