Artwork

The Saltimbanques

The Saltimbanques, by Pablo Picasso, 1905
The Saltimbanques, by Pablo Picasso, 1905

The Saltimbanques is a print by Pablo Picasso. It dates from 1905 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Saltimbanques is a 1905 print by Pablo Picasso, a Spanish artist who spent much of his career in France. It is part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a group of itinerant performers in a landscape, exploring themes of marginality and the human condition. The central figure appears to be entertaining others, suggesting a sense of community among the subjects.

Technique & Style

The scene is rendered in a simple, monochromatic style, with figures standing or sitting in various poses. The artist's use of limited colors and simple forms creates a calm atmosphere, characteristic of Picasso's work during this period of transition.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Pablo Picasso

Artist

Pablo Picasso

Pablo Ruiz Picasso (25 October 1881 – 8 April 1973) was a Spanish painter and sculptor who spent most of his adult life in France.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.