Description:This expressive linocut celebrates the beauty of the human form through which Picasso has created one of his most intriguing prints. Created using one block printed in black, the lines carved out of the linoleum has been printed in white, producing an effective aura of subtle grace and balanced composition. With traces of his cubist sentiment, Picasso has invited us into this intimate scene of painter and model; they interact with each other in a distracted way as each are occupied with their own action, despite being in such close proximity to one another. Yet a closeness and understanding between the two are conveyed as Picasso has effortlessly translated in the expression on their faces.
Created on July 2, 1965, this original linoleum cut is hand signed by Pablo Picasso (1881 – 1973) in pencil in the lower right margin. Number 4/160 in pencil in the lower left margin, this work was printed and published by Arnéra, Vallauris on Arches paper.
PROVENANCE:
Property from the Estate of Ernest Shapiro, NY
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 Tome I, Catalogue de l’œuvre grave et lithographié 1904 – 1967, Editions Kornfeld: Berne, 1984. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 1194 on pg. 252.
2. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. Picasso Linoleum Cuts, The Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kramer Collection, Liberman, W. S. (intr.) , Random House: New York. Listed and illustrated as plate no. 116 on pg. 112.
About the Framing:
Conservation framed with archival materials and museum quality, this work is set in a bronze, Baroque-style frame. The golden hues of the moulding compliment the rich deep tones and accentuate the bright colors of this work. The sculptural details also serve to enhance Picasso’s rhythmic and iconic stroke throughout the drawing. Completed with white, linen-wrapped mats and a matching gold inner fillet, this work is set behind an archival Plexiglas® cover.
