Picasso – ‘The Three Musicians’, 1921

Pablo Ruiz Picasso undoubtedly stands as one of the greatest artists of all time, alongside luminaries such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, and Rubens. He demonstrated excellence not only in painting but also in sculpture, graphics, ceramics, and stage set design. Picasso’s impact was profound, not only for his artistic innovations but also for the sheer volume of discourse surrounding his work during his lifetime.

Born on October 25, 1881, in Malaga, Spain, Picasso’s early professional career showcased his talents in works produced during the period commonly referred to as the “Blue Period” (late 1901 to early 1904). During this phase, he focused on human figures, veering away from landscapes and other subjects. His style shifted in 1905, transitioning into a more naturalistic approach characterized by sweetness and tranquility, known as the “Rose Period.”

Collaborating with George Braque, Picasso pioneered Cubism, a revolutionary movement that deconstructed natural forms into geometric planes and shifted perspectives. Cubist artists sought to explore the essence of objects through abstracted forms. The Cubist movement manifested in several variations, including Analytical Cubism, Synthetic Cubism, and Curvilinear Cubism, each emphasizing different aspects of abstraction and formal elements.

Despite his involvement in Cubism and occasional forays into Surrealism, Picasso also embraced Neoclassical style during the 1920s. He believed that art could serve political purposes, as evidenced by his monumental masterpiece “Guernica” (1937), a poignant condemnation of war and violence.

Among Picasso’s notable works is “Three Musicians,” created in 1921 during the Synthetic Cubism phase. This painting, executed at Fontainebleau, exemplifies the rectilinear aspect of Synthetic Cubism, showcasing the artist’s innovative approach to form and composition.

The Indian Posts & Telegraphs Department is honored to issue a commemorative stamp in tribute to Pablo Picasso, acknowledging his enduring influence and contributions to the world of art.