Picasso, Pablo, Original Ceramic Madoura Sculpture

Created in 1971, this rectangular plaque is from a limited and numbered edition with the original stamp of Picasso and numbering on the reverse: ‘POINÇON ORIGINALE DE PICASSO’ and ‘MADOURA PLEIN FEU.’  Numbered ‘J. 165 | 16/200’ (out of the total edition of 200 numbered plaques).

This simplistic, yet multi-faceted plaque is a stunning work which exhibits up to eight original stamps by Pablo Picasso.  Together with a series of deeply-set lines, the composition unites to create a “figure” with a prominent triangle in the center.  The lower three sections along the bottom plaque edge forms an anchoring effect that helps to stabilize the image; inside each of these “compartments,” are free-flowing figures that seem to be suspended in an organic movement.  The five stamps above are variations of a face, with two oval stamps serving as eyes at the top.  Overall, this plaque appears to work in tandem with its “female” counterpart, the Face with Curves, which is also featured in our Picasso inventory.

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. Ramié, A. (1988). Picasso: Catalogue of the Edited Ceramic Works 1947 – 1971. Madoura: Paris. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 617 on pg. 295.

   2. Bloch, G. (1972). Pablo Picasso: Catalogue de l’œuvre gravé céramique, Vol. III 1949-1971. Editions Kornfeld et Klipstein: Berne. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 223 on pg. 191.

About the Framing:
This resplendent custom frame serves as an elegant complement 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