1933

Sculptor and Standing Model

Spanish, 1881 - 1973

Picasso, seen here as the bearded sculptor, gazes at a female nude who possesses the features of Marie-Thérèse Walter, his mistress. Whether the female figure is his model or a statue come to life is uncertain. The juxtaposition of her hands with those of the sculptor’s creates a moment of sexual tension that recalls the ancient Greek legend of the sculptor Pygmalion, who brought one of his sculptures to life by kissing it.