“The Roofs of Barcelona in the Moonlight” is an artwork by Pablo Picasso, created in 1903. The medium used is oil on canvas, and it belongs to the Symbolism art movement with the genre of cityscape. This evocative piece captures a nocturnal scene of Barcelona, illuminated subtly by the moonlight.
The artwork portrays a view of angular rooftops and buildings beneath a dark and expansive sky. The palette is dominated by shades of blue, evoking a serene and melancholic atmosphere that is often associated with Picasso’s Blue Period. Delicate brushstrokes and the play of light and shadow converge to create a sense of tranquility as well as solitude. Architectural elements are simplified and stylized, focusing on the interplay of forms rather than intricate detail, which is typical of Picasso’s work during this period. The overall effect is one of contemplative quietude, with the moon’s glow casting a gentle luster over the urban landscape.