In the paintings of Pablo Picasso’s Blue Period (1901-04), the artist restricted himself to a cold, monochromatic blue palette, flattened forms, and emotional, psychological themes of human misery and alienation. This painting reflects the then twenty-two-year-old Picasso’s personal struggle and sympathy for the plight of the downtrodden. On this episode of Art Institute Essentials Tour, take a closer look at "The Old Guitarist," painted by Picasso between late 1903 and early 1904. Image: Pablo P