This lot consists of an unframed oil painting on stretched canvas, rendered in the Synthetic Cubism style of Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973). A hand-painted inscription at lower left reads, "Picasso 28". This dynamic image depicts three abstracted seaside figures. They toss a ball between them, with bright colors and imaginative form transforming the subject matter. This elegant painting would be a highlight to any modern art collector's gallery. Unframed piece overall measures approximately 18.5" x 24.25".

Reverse side of piece features a handwritten inscription, "Picasso", as well as the handwritten number "4272", and an affixed paper label which reads, "Galerie Simon. 29 bis. Rue d'Astorg. Paris (VIIIe). Pablo Picasso. 'Banistas' ['Bathers']."

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. 18.5" x 24.25".



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 has not been established nor is it implied. Definition of "in the style of" is as follows:

"In the style of" [Artist Name] : The work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but there may be some question as to actual authorship.

Overall good condition. Little to no evidence of chipping, paint loss, discoloration, or other aesthetic damage. Some toning has occurred with age. Image remains bold. Please examine photos for further reference.