PICASSO & COCTEAU: PICASSO PABLO: (1881-1973) Spanish painter, a co-founder of the Cubist movement & COCTEAU JEAN: (1889-1963) French poet, playwright, novelist, artist, filmmaker and critic. An excellent vintage signed 4 x 6 photograph by both Picasso and Cocteau individually, the image depicting the two hugely influential figures of 20th century art engaged in conversation with Pierre Bertrand, a specialist supplier of paper for printmaking and engravings, who can be seen standing in the immediate background. Signed (‘Picasso’) by Picasso in blue ink and signed (‘Jean Cocteau’) by Cocteau in fountain pen ink, adding a small star beneath his signature, both to the lower white border. Dated 20th May 1956 to the verso. The signature of Cocteau is a touch light although remains perfectly legible. A highly desirable signed image of the two artists. VG

The present photograph was signed by Cocteau and Picasso just a few months before the Spanish artist celebrated his 75th birthday with a party at Vallauris on 25th October 1956. Cocteau was amongst the close friends with whom Picasso celebrated.