The artwork entitled “Harlequin on the horseback,” created by the eminent artist Pablo Picasso in 1905, is an exemplar of genre painting from the Post-Impressionism movement. Crafted with oil on cardboard, the piece measures 100 by 69.2 centimeters. This particular period of Picasso’s career falls into his Rose Period, which is characterized by a lighter palette and a return to the stylistic elements of human figures and clowns, such as the harlequin featured in this work.
The artwork portrays a figure in a vibrant harlequin costume seated on a horse. The harlequin is depicted in a red outfit with a distinct diamond pattern, highlighted with white ruffles around the neck and at the cuffs of the sleeves. Adorned with a jaunty hat featuring a floppy adornment, the harlequin exudes a stately yet whimsical air. The horse is rendered in darker tones, with loose, fluid strokes that suggest movement and grace. Together, rider and mount are set against a muted backdrop that serves to foreground the pair, drawing attention to their interaction and demeanor. Picasso’s signature can be seen at the bottom of the piece, affirming its authenticity and origin.
