The buffet of 'Catalan' 1943

Pablo Picasso made this painting, The Buffet of 'Catalan', with oil on canvas. Just look at those forms! It feels like Picasso is pushing and pulling the objects into these unexpected, abstract shapes that still hint at what they are. The colors are so rich and earthy, like the deep brown of the wood and the shimmering blue of the glassware. He builds up the layers of paint, but it’s not overworked, you can still see the marks, like in the folded creases of the tablecloth, there's a sense of energy. He's not trying to trick you into thinking this is real. It's more like he's inviting you to play along with him, to see the world in a new way. It reminds me of Braque and his still lives. Ultimately, this painting is a reminder that art is about questioning, exploring, and never settling for easy answers.