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. 155 | EXEMPLAIRE EDITEUR’ (out of the total edition of 200 numbered plaques).

This simplistic, yet multi-faceted plaque is a stunning work which exhibits up to seven original stamps by Pablo Picasso.  Together with a series of deeply-set lines, the composition unites to create a “face” flanked by two, distinct curves in the center.  The segmented area along the bottom features a single stamp of a figure in flight.  There are other similar stamps throughout the composition: a man riding a horse, a couple running, and a figure in flight with his dog.  All of these mini-maquettes of figural studies and landscapes come together to create an abstracted “face.”  This plaque is further complemented by its “male” counterpart, the Figure with Triangle which can also be found in our Picasso inventory.

Illustrated in:

1. 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. 227 on pg. 195.
2. Ramié, A. (1988). Picasso: Catalogue of the Edited Ceramic Works 1947 – 1971. Madoura: Paris. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 630 on pg. 299.
3. Ramié, G. (1985). Ceramics of Picasso. Ediciones Polígrafa, S.A.: Barcelona. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 222 on pg. 124.
4. Ramié, G. (1976). Picasso’s Ceramics. Viking Press: NY. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 663 on pg. 273 (another version illustrated).

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).