This lot consists of an unframed gouache painting on canvas, rendered in the abstract style of modern artist Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973). This Cubist piece depicts a jumble of animal and human figures, all done in bold shades of grey, black, and beige.This dynamic piece would be a highlight to any modern art collector's gallery. Unframed overall measurements are 16" x 23.75".

Reverse side of piece features a handwritten inscription which reads, "Picasso", as well as four affixed paper labels and a number of ink stamps. One label reads, "Eugene Vistor Thaw". Another label reads, "Museu Picasso". A third simply says, "Les Quatre Cats. Barcelona." The last paper label reads, "Musee d'Orsay" and has a circular stamp which reads, "Pablo Picasso Estate Collection". Other stamps bear the phrases "Certificacion" and "Pablo Picasso".

Best known for his ever evolving style, Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973) produced a huge body of work which spanned most of the 20th century. He explored many mediums, from oil painting and ceramics to pastel and silkscreen. Picasso led a fascinating, tempestuous life. At the age of seven, Picasso's father began to provide the boy with formal art training. Picasso's career took wing in Barcelona and Paris, where he lived in poverty and was even forced to burn his paintings for heat.

Eventually, Picasso came to dominate the European art world, and would gravitate toward the tropical coasts of the French Riviera. It was here that he lived and worked for many years. The figures in his earliest work were classical and rather academic; later portraiture became increasingly abstract, often with jumbled facial features and inventive colors.

Pablo Picasso was a leader of the early Analytic Cubism school, which took on new form with the Synthetic Cubism movement (also spearheaded by Picasso). Though his personal life was riddled with upheaval and controversy, Picasso the artist was remarkably uninhibited and prolific. He was a free-roaming explorer of art in all its styles and forms.
PROVENANCE:
Private Collection

DIMENSIONS:
Unframed approx. 16" x 23.75".


Our July 31th auction includes consignments from both the United States and Overseas. We're offering a unique collection of decorative art.

PLEASE NOTE: Lots that do not carry established documented provenance nor any past auction record are described in this catalog as "in the style of". Authentication of the artwork has not been established nor is it implied. Authentication of any stamps or labels has not been established nor is it implied. Pieces are being sold "As Is". No additional information regarding provenance will be provided after the auction.

Definition of "in the style of" is as follows:
The work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but the actual authorship is unknown.

Overall fair condition. Some stretching and chipping has occurred. No tears, stains, creases, or serious aesthetic damage to note. For additional detail, please refer to photos.