Utilizing the simplistic design motifs frequently found in his ceramics, Pablo Picasso ceramic Joie de Vivre (Joy of Living), 1956 A.R. 346 creates a bold monochromatic work that plays with our notion of what is functional and what is art. Utilizing simple lines in relief, Picasso conveys joyful figures dancing in a circle. Picasso excels at fitting the decoration with the form of the ceramic, and the though he puts into it is also seen here. The circle of dancers is mirrored in the beautiful circular plate which introduces a harmony to the work that joins well with the message 'joy of living.' The gentle slope of the hill behind the dancers also fits in with the fluid nature of the plate and the decoration. Though the figures are rendered simply, their limbs are full of movement and life. Picasso is a true expert of taking simple figures and breathing life into them. Stars and suns decorate the border of this beautiful dish, further contributing to its cheerful and upbeat sensibility and also giving a feeling of timelessness to this celebration - as if these people danced joyfully through the day, on into the night, and then began again.

Created in 1956, this oval dish of white earthenware clay is numbered from the edition of 100. This work is stamped with the 'MADOURA PLEIN FEU' and 'EMPREINTE ORIGINALE DE PICASSO' pottery stamps on the reverse.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
Pablo Picasso ceramic Joy of Living (Joie de Vivre), 1956 A.R. 346  is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices accompanying the sale of the work):

1. Ramié, Alain. Picasso Catalogue of the edited ceramic works 1947-1971. Vallauris: Madoura,1988. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 346.
2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this work.