Pablo Picasso Colombe sur lit de paille (Dove on Straw Bed), 1949 depicts an exquisite dove that rests atop a bed of straw. The dove, a universal symbol for peace, is a recurring subject in Picasso's works. In this ceramic, Picasso illustrates a fairly life-like dove, one that lacks the sharp pointed angles of abstraction that his other works sometimes display. In this piece, he pays attention to intricate detail, outlining each tuft and feather in thin, black lines and taking the time to convey expression, best represented through the dove's small, beady eye and delicate beak. The dove is stark white, standing out against the dark black background. The glossy finish of the piece encourages viewer interaction, shimmering to capture the light and drawing the viewer in to this image of peace and beauty.

Created in 1949, this white earthenware clay rectangular dish is decorated in engobes (red, yellow, white, black) with knife engravings and white enamel brushed under glaze. From the total edition of 300, this work also features the inscribed stamps: 'MADOUR PLEIN FEU','EDITION PICASSO' and 'NOUVELLE EDITION' on the reverse.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
Pablo Picasso Colombe sur lit de paille (Dove on Straw Bed), 1949 is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that will accompany the 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 no. 79.
2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this artwork.