Pablo Picasso, Neptune Foncé (Dark Neptune), 1968

Artist: Pablo Picasso (1881 - 1973)
Title:Neptune Foncé (Dark Neptune), 1968
Reference:AR 580
Medium:Madoura red earthenware clay square plaque with engobe ground and engraving enhanced with oxides (white, blue, two greens) under partial brushed glaze
Image Size:DIMENSIONS: 8 1/2 in x 8 1/2 in (21.5 cm x 21.5 cm)
Edition:From the edition of 100.
Signature:This work is stamped with the 'MADOURA PLEIN FEU' and 'EMPREINTE ORIGINALE DE PICASSO' pottery stamps on the reverse.
Condition:This work is in excellent condition.
ID #w-7806

Historical Description

Neptune comes alive in this three-dimensional work, his hair reminiscent of a lion's mane. Majestic, monumental, and daring are all words that can describe this piece, both in terms of subject matter and aesthetic value. Neptune appears curious and friendly, as he tilts his head and smiles out at us. White, blue, and green surface tonalities contrast nicely with the red clay beneath, creating a strong sense of contrast.

Created in 1968-1969, this red earthenware clay square plaque with engobe ground and engraving enhanced with oxides (white, blue, two greens) under partial brushed glaze is from the edition of 100. This work is stamped with the 'MADOURA PLEIN FEU' and 'EMPREINTE ORIGINALE DE 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. Ramié, Alain. Picasso Catalogue of the edited ceramic works 1947-1971. Madoura: Galerie Madoura, 1988. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné 580 on pg. 282.
  2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this work.

Subject Matter: $16-50k