Self-Portrait (1907)

This stark and powerful “Self-Portrait” by Pablo Picasso, painted in 1907, is a pivotal work that marks his definitive break from earlier styles and his embrace of what would become Cubism. Created in the same year as “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon,” this self-portrait shows Picasso abandoning traditional representation in favor of a more angular and fragmented approach. His face is rendered with sharp, almost mask-like features, reflecting the influence of Iberian sculpture and African tribal masks. The eyes, though intense, are stylized and dislocated, and the lines of his face are sharp and geometric. The background is a muted, earthy tone, further emphasizing the raw, unadorned power of the self-image. This painting is a testament to Picasso’s revolutionary vision and his willingness to challenge artistic norms, offering a glimpse into the mind of a young artist on the cusp of radically transforming modern art. It’s a foundational piece for understanding the origins of Cubism.