Woman with a Mandolin (Femme à la mandoline)
Painting on canvas • Pablo Picasso
Style & Movement
Cubism (specifically late Synthetic Cubism)
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas; Synthetic Cubist technique involving overlapping geometric planes, stippling, and faux-marbling patterns
Creation Period
1917
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 100 x 70 cm; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A deconstructed female figure seated in an armchair, holding a mandolin. The composition utilizes interlocking vertical and horizontal planes to suggest depth and volume without traditional perspective. The mandolin is simplified into linear forms, and the woman's figure is integrated into the background elements, including decorative harlequin-like diamond patterns and textured wallpaper-like motifs.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent/Very Good; The painting appears stable with well-preserved pigment intensity and intact structural integrity, representative of a museum-quality object.
Estimated Market Value
Over $100,000,000 (Based on historical Picasso sales of this period and significance)
Auction Estimate
Request upon interest; Private treaty likely preferred, but would set a world record benchmark if auctioned.
Provenance History
Formerly in the collection of Gertrude Stein; acquired by the Musée de l'Orangerie (Jean Walter and Paul Guillaume Collection).
Art Historical Significance
A pivotal example of Picasso's return to more architectural, colorful compositions following his highly monochromatic Analytic Phase. This work bridges the gap between the experimental collages of 1912-14 and the monumental Neoclassical style he would adopt in the 1920s.
Notable Features
Features a sophisticated interplay of textures and patterns, including the diamond 'Arlequin' motif which was a recurring obsession for Picasso during this period.
Condition Issues
Minor surface craquelure consistent with age; possible very slight yellowing of the varnish layers.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a climate-controlled environment (50% RH, 20°C); UV-filtering glazing; periodic monitoring of canvas tension.