The artwork titled “The straw hat with blue leaves” was created by the renowned artist Pablo Picasso in 1936. It is an oil painting on canvas that measures 61 x 50 cm. Exemplifying the Surrealist movement, this portrait is located at the Musée Picasso in Paris, France. Picasso’s influence on Surrealism and his contribution to the genre is evident in this striking and distinctive piece.
In the artwork, the subject is depicted in a style typical of Picasso’s later works, with a strong emphasis on abstract forms and a departure from realistic representation. The face is stylized with a simplified eye, nose, and mouth, and the figure wears a distinctive straw hat adorned with blue leaves, emphasizing the surreal and unconventional interpretation of the subject. The palette is subdued with earthy background tones that contrast with the more vivid colors used for the figure. The portrait embodies a blend of both whimsical and somber elements, characteristic of Picasso’s innovative approach to portraiture during this period of his career.
