Description:Brimming with excitement, this scene translates the lively and entertaining bull and picador in the central ring of the famed Spanish arena. Oftentimes the subject of Picasso's many ceramic works, this piece sets itself apart from the rest, with an incredibly textured surface created by the polychromatic stippling effect. The simple, block coloration of the bold red, blue, and yellow signify the swish of the cape, the interior of the arena, and the fiery nature of the bull. It is an extraordinary effect, as Picasso utilizes the medium of the plate with its slight concave dimensionality and unfinished surface balanced with the finished, colored sheen of the bullfight.
Created on July 1, 1959, this round dish is classified as in original print of white, earthenware clay with decoration in engobes under partial brushed glaze and beige patina. Numbered 7/50 in black ink on the reverse, this work is out of a series of eight dishes with varying scenes of the corrida featuring polychromatic stippling throughout the surface of the dish. Stamped on the reverse: 'Empreinte Originale de Picasso.'
Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
It is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that will accompany the final sale of the work) :
1. Bloch, Georges. Pablo Picasso, Catalogue de l'oeuvre grave céramique 1949-1971. Tome III: 1972, Editions Kornfeld et Klipstein: Berne, 1972. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 133 on pg. 117.
2. Ramié, Alain. Picasso Catalogue of the edited ceramic works 1947-1971, Madoura, 1988. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 419 on pg. 221.
About the Framing:
This resplendent custom frame is the perfect elegant compliment to this remarkable work. Framing begins with linen wrapped wooden liners that securely hold the ceramic and allow visibility in the back (to view markings) . A contemporary and elegant varnished gold leaf frame encases the wood liners. The delicate coloration of the wood moulding perfectly compliments the gentle texture and color within the terracotta. A heavy weight picture wire is attached to the frame to ensure a secure hanging. Due to the size and weight of this piece, we recommend using a heavy duty double nail hook with 100-150 pound weight capacity (double the weight of the piece to determine hook capacity) .
