The artwork “Woman in a Shawl” was created by Pablo Picasso in 1902. It is an oil painting on canvas, measuring 63 x 52.4 cm, and is currently housed in a private collection. The piece is a portrait rendered in the Expressionist style, which is known for its focus on representing emotional experiences rather than replicating reality.
The artwork presents a female figure draped in a shawl, with the color palette dominated by cool hues, particularly blues. The woman’s gaze is direct and engaging, and her features are simplified yet expressive. Picasso’s brushwork is visible, contributing to the sense of depth and texture within the painting. The background is minimalistic, ensuring that the focus remains on the subject. The use of shading and light implies volume, giving the figure a three-dimensional effect. There’s a poignant emotional quality captured in the posture and the facial expression of the woman, reflective of Picasso’s Blue Period during which he often portrayed themes of poverty, isolation, and melancholy.
