Pablo Picasso Faun's head, 1955

Dated June 28, 1955, this ceramic is engraved with the 'Madoura Plein Feu' and 'Empreinte Originale de Picasso' stamps. This piece is an original print, indicating that the plate was the product of a transfer of an image engraved on a hardened plaster matrix by Pablo Picasso on which the surface of a fresh ceramic sheet has taken a positive impression of the negative engraved motif.

Highly sculptural in detail with fun, amusing features and facial expressions, this Faun's Head is one of Pablo Picasso's most cherished ceramics. Its brilliant, white finish adds a touch of refinement and class while still evoking a lighthearted and pleasurable spirit.

This grinning, ceramic faun has been the subject of several of Picasso's work during this period as he drew much inspiration from this classic mythological character. Fauns were most known for their love of dancing, entertainment, and overall fun; Picasso seems to have tapped into this aspect, creating an expressive and lively rendition of a faun's face in this white ceramic plate. The textural qualities allow the piece to come alive and seemingly penetrate our space with its defined horns, nose, and jawline. Picasso took great lengths to animate each feature, from the hair on its head to the pupils in its eyes. The fun aura radiates from this piece and will surely enliven and brighten up any space.

Documentation:

1. Ramié, Alain. Picasso, Catalogue of the Edited Ceramic Works 1947-1971, Vallauris, 1988. Listed and illustrated as cat. no. 283 on pg. 145.
2. Bloch, Georges. Pablo Picasso, Volume III: Catalogue of the Printed Ceramics 1949-1971, Berne, 1972. Listed and illustrated as cat. no. 63 on pg. 59.

This resplendent custom frame is the perfect, elegant compliment 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). An elegant varnished gold leaf frame encases the wood liners to create a shadow-box affect against a black background. The delicate coloration of the wood moulding perfectly compliments the gentle texture and color within the clay. A heavy weight picture wire is also 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).