This remarkable rectangular ceramic is the stunning companion to Hibou Brillant, a magnificent ceramic that recently sold on March 19, 2013 at Sotheby's London for $94,482 (£62,500) as Lot 47. Displayed as a set, Hibou Brillant and Hibou Mat perfectly complement one another, playing off of each other's subtle tonal and textural differences. Hibou Mat's matte surface and softer coloration set it apart from Bright Owl's glazed surface and bolder coloration. With its seamless matte finish and striking graphic sensibilities, Hibou Mat is one of Picasso's most magnificent ceramics. It is incredibly rendered and detailed with expressive strokes characterizing its lush feathers and patterning. The image of the owl takes up the entirety of the dish, as it sits perched against a whimsical background of brick red and blue stars.

Created in 1955, this rectangular dish of white earthenware clay with decoration in engobes (black, white, blue) engraved by knife with glaze underside is from the edition of 450. This work is stamped with the 'MADOURA PLEIN FEU' and 'EDITION PICASSO' pottery stamps on the bottom.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
This work is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices accompanying the final sale of the work):

1. Ramié, Alain. Picasso Catalogue of the edited ceramic works 1947-1971. Madoura: Galerie Madoura, 1988. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 284.
2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this work.