Using a standard symmetrical vase form, Picasso complicates the shape by adding a cropped cylinder to the center back portion of the vase. This interesting design choice is incorporated into the decoration, as Picasso uses the cropped cylinder to become the pinned back hair of the "Owl Woman." The name, Owl Woman is likely inspired by the shape of the vase, as it was used in three other known ceramics that were painted as owl forms. The Owl Woman is the only piece that deviates from the standard owl decoration, making it a very interesting and unique work. Picasso's merging of the female and animal forms is typical of his signature style, as he continued to explore transformative properties of the female figure throughout his career. The decoration, done exclusively in black on a white enamel plane, is truly beautiful.

Created in 1950, this Madoura turned vase is constructed from white earthenware clay, with engobe and paraffin decoration on white enamel with black. From the edition of 500, this work is inscribed 'Edition Picasso' on verso with stamps: 'D'APRES PICASSO' and 'MADOURA'.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
This work is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices accompanying the final 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. 119.
2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this work.