Using the traditional figure of a happy, jovial king, the city of the Nice was inspired by Picasso's unique, artistic vision and wanted this image as central to promoting tourism and highlighting its yearly carnival. The colors explode from the work; bold, bright hues of teals and blues, coupled with golden yellows (reminiscent of the Mediterranean sun) and right reds all combine to create a festive, whimsical work. According to Joseph K. Foster, Picasso's unbridled brilliance and signature genius can be noticed throughout the work:

"He knows exactly what is going to develop as, with an easy, unfaltering movement, he starts the composition at the center (in the area of the nose) and in one unending line completes the face. Notice, too, how he encloses one eye and puts the other in open space… All these touches, while seemingly casual, are carefully thought out to provide interest, solidity, variety, and movement - touches that the Picasso follow now takes for granted" (28-9) .

Created on January 12, 1951, this color Collotype was commissioned by the City of Nice in order to celebrate its annual carnival. Based on an original oil on canvas, this work was printed by the Imprimerie de la Victoire, Nice (see yellow stamp in the lower right) and published by the City of Nice. The work is hand-signed in the lower left in blue ink by Pablo Picasso (1881 - 1973) and also numbered to the left of the signature 'No. 53'; also signed in the stone in blue in the lower left of the work and dated '12.1.51'. Published by "Le Patriote" for the Carnavel of Nice. The total edition was 100.

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 I will enclose with the sale of the work) :

1. Foster, Joseph K. The Posters of Picasso, Grosset & Dunlap: New York, 1964. Listed and illustrated as plate 9 and detailed on pgs. 28-9.

About the Framing:
Conservation framed with archival materials, this work is set in an ornate, Italian-style gold and bronze moulding. The golden sheen of the framing contrasts nicely with the work while complimenting and bringing out the dark tones in the piece. The sculptural details accentuate the organic forms within the image and Picasso's overall aesthetic. Completed with white, linen-wrapped mats and a matching gold inner fillet, this work is set behind an archival Plexiglas cover.