“The Bread Carrier” is an artwork by the renowned artist Pablo Picasso, created in the year 1905. This piece exemplifies the Expressionism art movement and is considered a genre painting. The artwork measures 100 x 69.8 cm. It reflects Picasso’s engagement with depicting everyday life and common subjects in a manner that conveys emotional depth and introspection.
The artwork presents a figure, presumably a woman, who appears to be portrayed in a rather straightforward manner, with a loaf of bread balanced upon her head. The bread, a common staple, may symbolize sustenance or the everyday labor associated with providing for one’s self or family. The woman is dressed in a traditional costume with earthy tones, which could be indicative of the era or regional attire.
Her expression is serene, yet there is a particular intensity in her gaze that suggests a deeper narrative beyond the simple act of carrying bread. The background is muted, with soft washes of color that do not detract from the central figure, emphasizing the importance of her role and the object she bears. The painterly quality veers towards simplicity and the use of bold yet harmonious colors underscores the emotional resonance of the scene. The artist has expertly captured a moment in time that speaks to the universal human condition through the lens of the everyday worker.
