Picasso
20TH CENTURY WORK
Marie-Thérèse Leaning on One Elbow
January 7, 1939. Oil on canvas, 255/8 x 181/8" (65 x 46 cm).
Not in Zervos Private collection
Pablo Picasso is one artist well known for his artwork through the distortion of figures and bright intense colours and Marie-Thérèse Leaning on One Elbow is no exception. The colours in this piece range from bright greens and pinks to subtle yet striking creams and yellows and are placed well within the piece to allow it to remain true to the subject matter yet obviously distinct. Shape and space are distorted within this piece to create an interesting image which remains symmetrical no matter the immense deformity. Not only are shapes distorted, but parts are also largely exaggerated. The eyes get the attention of viewers due to their abnormality. Although distorted, this piece remains in proportion and strongly resembles the human figure.
The focus within this piece is upon the main figure due to contrast between the fore and backgrounds where warm colours are drawn forward in comparison to cool . The subject matter of Marie-Thérèse Leaning on One Elbow portrays an aristocratic or superior female figure due to the stance of her body. Her elegant clothing also resembles this. Picasso has manipulated all of the elements effectively, blending painting techniques with the subject matter to create an extremely energetic and harmonious piece.
Other Picasso Pages:
Picasso: The Women Part 1
Pablo Picasso Artwork