A beautiful dove rests atop a bed of straw, framed by a border reminiscent of red clay bricks. The dove, a universal symbol for peace, is a re-occurring subject in Picasso's works. In this ceramic, Picasso depicts a fairly life-like dove, one that lacks the sharp pointed angles of abstraction that his other works sometimes display. In this piece, he pays particular attention to contrast and texture, as deep lines define each tuft and feather. The dove is stark white, standing out against the dark matte black background. The glossy finish around the edges of the piece encourages viewer interaction, shimmering to capture the light and drawing us in to this image of peace and beauty.

Created in 1948, this original rectangular dish of white earthenware clay with decoration in engobes (red, yellow, black) is knife engraved under partial brushed glaze. A unique color variant, this work is stamped with the 'MADOURA PLEIN FEU' and 'EDITION PICASSO' pottery stamps on the reverse.

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. Listed and illustrated in the following: Ramié, Alain. Picasso Catalogue of the edited ceramic works 1947-1971. Madoura: 1988.

2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this work.