The lion comes alive in this three-dimensional Pablo Picasso ceramic Lions Head, 1968-1969 A.R. 575, its diamond shape echoing that of a lion's mane, rendering it one of Picasso's most vivid and stunning ceramics. Majestic, monumental, and daring are all words that can describe this piece, both in terms of subject matter and aesthetic value. The lion has a serene, almost joyous expression with a whimsical nature, evoking a lighthearted and childlike sentiment. Its bold, contrasting color with white, blue, green, yellow, and black surface tonalities is interrupted by the red clay beneath, accenting Picasso's signature strokes and expressive detail.

This particular plaque is unique because it is the only one from Picasso's grouping of square plaques that is meant to be oriented in this direction. The rest of the plaques use a straight edge as the bottom of the piece, while Lions Head, 1968-1969 A.R. 575 used the corner. Most of the lion still fits on the plaque in this orientation, but there are some parts of the mane that get cut off. This has the effect of making the viewer feel that they are gazing in on the lion, looking through a small window that Picasso has made, into the life of the lion.

Created in 1968-1969, this square plaque of red earthenware clay, engobe ground, engraving enhanced with oxides (white, 2 blues, green, yellow, black) under partial brushed glaze with black patina is from the edition of 50. 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 Lions Head, 1968-1969 A.R. 575 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: 1988. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonne no. 575.

2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this work.