The artwork “Reading The Letter” by Pablo Picasso is a notable example of the Neoclassical period within his oeuvre, created circa 1921. This genre painting is executed in oil on canvas and measures 184 by 105 centimeters. It is housed in the Musée Picasso in Paris, France. The style of the artwork is distinct from Picasso’s earlier periods, showcasing his versatility and deep engagement with different artistic traditions.
The artwork depicts two figures, presumably males, engaged in the intimate act of reading a letter. The figure on the left, dressed in what appears to be a light-colored jacket and darker trousers, is holding the letter and seems to be reading it intently. His posture is slightly hunched over the paper, and his expression is one of concentration. The other figure, wearing a darker jacket, leans in close, with his chin resting on his hand, suggesting a shared moment of reflection or concern about the letter’s contents.
Their proximity to one another and the way one figure leans on the other create a sense of unity and mutual interest. The somber palette of the painting, with its earthy tones, contributes to the reflective mood and draws the viewer’s attention to the expressions and body language of the figures. The brushwork and composition reflect a return to a more classical form and structure, moving away from the highly fragmented and abstracted forms of Picasso’s prior Cubist phase. This work emphasizes emotion and narrative, offering a glimpse into a personal and possibly poignant moment shared between the two subjects.
