Still Life (Wineglass and Newspaper)

In 1914, Picasso explored the use of words, the expressive and conceptual possibilities of reflected light, and vivid color in Cubist painting. Centrally in this painting is a fluted goblet defined by a gray-blue area of paint and a white strip stippled with colors. These elements are meant to portray the sparkle of reflected light. Another area of dotted color above the glass creates a pattern of a background wallpaper, portraying how the light from the glass is reflected on the wall. To the right is a folded newspaper; the first three letters of the word “journal” peaking out. A straight but jagged line of a decorated table edge is also shown, covered by the brown shadow of the goblet; thus, marking the bottom of the still-life arrangement and composition as a whole.
SKU: 8866
Creator: Pablo Picasso
Date: 1914
Original Medium: oil and sand on canvas
Original Size: 20 5/8 x 17 1/4 in
Location: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Picasso Administration