The artwork “Woman sitting in an armchair,” created by the renowned artist Pablo Picasso in 1938, is a powerful example of his innovative work within the Cubism and Surrealism art movements. With dimensions of 188 x 12 cm, this portrait captures the characteristic angular and geometric abstraction for which Picasso is well-known. As a distinct piece reflective of its era, it displays an experimental approach to form, color, and perspective that challenges traditional representations of the human figure.
In this artwork, Picasso dismantles and reassembles the human form in an unconventional arrangement that pushes the limits of figurative representation. The subject of the portrait, a woman sitting in an armchair, is depicted with a fragmented face where features such as eyes, nose, and mouth are repositioned, offering multiple viewpoints simultaneously. Parts of her anatomy are exaggerated and stylized, while other areas are reduced to simple, bold shapes.
The artist employs a limited color palette consisting of neutrals, with shades of white, beige, and gray dominating the composition, punctuated by subtle contrasts to outline various elements of the figure and chair. The background is intentionally subdued to ensure that the focus remains on the subject. This strategic use of color and form exemplifies Picasso’s ability to convey complex depths and structures, whilst still maintaining a sense of the subject’s presence within a familiar setting — a woman seated in domestic repose.
Overall, the artwork is a testament to Picasso’s revolutionary approach to portraiture, reflecting a deep exploration of spatial construction and the human experience as interpreted through the radical visual language of Cubism and Surrealism.
