Pablo Picasso Arena, 1958

Created in 1958, this earthenware turned vase is written on the underside in black, 'Edition Picasso' with inscribed atelier stamps, 'MADOURA PLEIN FEU' and 'EDITION PICASSO.' Numbered in black on the underside of the vase(out of the total edition of 100 numbered works).

This exquisite turned vase is perhaps one of Picasso's most intriguing and fascinating ceramics featuring this famous area scene 'in the round.' Engaging his audience by using the cylindrical shape of the vase to his advantage, he has elegantly created an exciting bullfight surrounded by crowd-filled stadium of onlookers. The turned vase successfully captures the energy and enthusiasm of this historic, Spanish tradition that Picasso chooses to celebrate. The top of the vase is the sky, whose horizon is outlined by the upper rim of the stadium, with sleek birds that fly above. The widest areas of the vase feature the multiple rows of the audience, who look below at the picadors, horses, and bulls that are underway. The interesting placement of the bulk of the action towards the lower areas of the vase, allow for a play on depth and perspective of the image - a trompe l'oeil effect.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
Pablo Picasso Arena, 1958 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. Galerie Madoura: Vallauris. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 406 on pg. 213.