A striking arrangement of clean, expressive lines. Picasso gives the face its distinctive presence by relying on the strength and rhythm of the etched line, with no color and very little conventional shading. The result is a portrait that feels at once spare, elegant, and psychologically compelling.

This original 1936 drypoint is especially notable as a rare printer’s proof, separate from the edition of 50 and the artist’s proofs. The print is hand-signed and printed on Verge d’Auvergne Richard de Bas paper. It is documented as Bloch no. 291 in the catalog raisonné of Picasso’s printed work, and a certificate of authenticity from the gallery it was purchased from accompanies the piece. The combination of its early date, rare proof status, and assured graphic execution makes it a particularly interesting example of Picasso’s printmaking.

Literature: Bloch n. 291.

Certificate of Authenticity included.