“Head of a Man in El Greco style” is an artwork created by Pablo Picasso in 1899 that exhibits the influence of the El Greco style on the artist. This portrait, painted with oil on canvas, is part of the Realism art movement and measures 34.7 by 31.7 cm. It is a genre painting that captures the essence of portraiture and is currently housed in the Museu Picasso in Barcelona, Spain.
The artwork presents a robust composition with a somber palette, emphasizing dark tones with highlights that catch the contours of the man’s face and attire. The male figure is rendered with sharp features and a penetrating gaze that directly engages the viewer. His face is characterized by elongated lines and a distinct chiaroscuro effect, reminiscent of El Greco’s style, which Picasso emulates here.
There is a visible intensity and psychological depth conveyed through the subject’s eyes, a hallmark of the penetrating character studies achieved by El Greco and reflected in this piece by Picasso. The brushwork is expressive, with the painting’s texture contributing to the overall dramatic effect, further aligning it with the emotional potency of El Greco’s work. Despite the realistic representation, one can sense the early signs of Picasso’s exploration of form and his departure from the strict confines of Realism, anticipating his later forays into more abstract and experimental styles.
