The Old Guitarist

The Old Guitarist is a haunting painting created by Pablo Picasso in 1903-1904 during his Blue Period. This oil on panel work (122.9 x 82.6 cm) is currently housed in the Art Institute of Chicago.

The painting depicts a gaunt, elderly man hunched over a large guitar. The figure's elongated, angular form dominates the canvas, creating a sense of isolation and melancholy. His eyes are closed, suggesting introspection or perhaps blindness.

The most striking feature of the painting is its monochromatic blue palette, characteristic of Picasso's Blue Period. Various shades of blue create a somber, melancholic atmosphere, reflecting themes of poverty, loneliness, and human suffering.

The guitar, slightly warmer in tone, serves as the painting's focal point and the man's sole companion. It symbolizes the enduring power of art and music amidst hardship.

Picasso's use of line is evident in the sharp, angular contours of the figure and instrument. The distorted proportions and flattened perspective hint at his developing Cubist style.

The Old Guitarist is a powerful representation of human resilience in the face of adversity. It stands as one of the most iconic works from Picasso's Blue Period, embodying the emotional depth and social commentary that characterized this phase of his career.

• Price is a final price which means tax and frame price included
• To meet the diverse needs of our customers, we offer frames in various sizes and aspect ratios. Our artists will adjust and optimize the composition based on the size chosen by the customer, ensuring the best possible display effect for each unique piece.