A whimsical work full of glorious artistry, Pablo Picasso Chouette (Wood-Owl), 1948 A.R. 48, stands out as a magnificent ceramic. Verdant, green tendrils creep around the sides of the rectangular plate, framing the delicate owl within. Placed on a sky-blue background, a black and brown owl sits with talons outstretched and wide yellow eyes gazing forward. The body of the owl is a musical swirl of brown and black that brings a fantastical element to the plate. The painterly quality of the owl adds complexity and uniqueness to the ceramic medium. Our owl is suspended in a moment of beauty, and the sweet, spring colors bring out the lively feeling of this work twofold. The glaze on the plate adds to this delicacy, making for a smooth and shiny finish atop the already wonderful work.

Picasso often turns to animals for inspiration in his works, and much of the time he is inspired, in particular, by the owl. We know that Picasso had a pet owl that lived in his studio and served as the model for many of his works. Here we again have a wonderful tribute to a favorite animal.

Created in 1948, this Madoura rectangular dish of white earthenware clay with decoration in oxides under glaze (green, brown, and yellow) is stamped with the ‘EDITION PICASSO’ and ‘MADOURA PLEIN FEU’ pottery stamps on the verso and is numbered from the edition of 200 in ink on the verso.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
Pablo Picasso ceramic Wood-Owl (Chouette), 1948 A.R. 48, 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: 1988. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonne no. 48.
2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this artwork.