New Technology Unveils a Rare Picasso Artwork from the Early Blue Period

A recently examined artwork from Pablo Picasso’s renowned Blue Period has unveiled an intriguing surprise: an additional figure concealed beneath its surface. This discovery offers deeper understanding into the artistic methods Picasso employed during this crucial chapter of his career.

Key Points to Consider:

The artwork, created in 1901 and titled “Portrait of Mateu Fernández de Soto,” depicts the sculptor who shares the same name and was a close friend of a young Picasso. At only 19, Picasso had recently settled in Paris, preparing for his inaugural exhibition in the city.
According to the Courtauld Gallery in London, advanced imaging techniques, including X-ray and infrared technology, revealed a portrait of a woman hidden underneath the image of Soto. Experts believe this concealed portrait was likely created just a few months earlier than the final piece.
Several hypotheses have emerged regarding the unidentified woman concealed for over a century. One theory suggests that Picasso, facing financial constraints, opted to reuse canvases instead of starting anew. Notably, he was known to layer his artwork rather than completely whitewashing the canvas.

For insights on health, finance, relationships, and more lifestyle subjects, consider subscribing to the Life Kit newsletter.

Who Might She Be?

The identity of this mysterious woman remains a subject of investigation. While museum curators are yet to uncover definitive answers, they speculate that she may have been a model, a friend, or potentially even a romantic interest who inspired Picasso during that period.

Her pose and demeanor bear resemblance to several other seated women depicted in Picasso’s works from the same year. Researchers even speculate that more hidden layers might exist beneath her likeness.