Chicago Museum of Art: Picasso's "The Old Guitarist"

Years ago as I studied the guitar and became a more accomplished guitarist (and that isn't saying much), I found this painting stunningly beautiful and peaceful.  

I was surprised at the placard next to the painting where the Picasso's "blue period" was described as cold, monochromatic, flattened and emotional, psychological themes of human misery.  Here is a blind, poor, musician doing only that which is left for him....to play.

My thinking was this was an old man playing because it was beautiful.  He is playing because he can become lost in the music.   And, it is his gift to those around him.

But, what do I know.