This lot consists of an unframed mixed media (gouache and ink) drawing on paper, rendered in the abstract style of modern artist Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973). A hand-painted inscription at lower right reads, "Picasso 3.4.59 X". This dynamic image depicts a matador preparing to spear a fighting bull. Writing appears at top of paper -- in a foreign language and unreadable to this reviewer. Unframed piece overall measures approximately 11.75" x 8".

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 piece overall measures approximately 11.75" x 8"


Our August 22nd auction includes consignments from both the United States and Overseas. A fine offering of Modern 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 has not been established nor is it implied. No additional information regarding provenance will be provided after the auction. 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.

Drawing is in overall good condition. Paper has age related toning, bumps and chips -- heaviest around the edges. Creases where paper was once folded. Image and signature remain bold, crisp and show very well.