The striking Pablo Picasso ceramic Picador et taureau (Picador and Bull), 1953 A.R. 197 depicts a moment earlier in the fight when the picador, or horseman, lances the bull's neck muscles so that it will keep its head low for the later stages of the fight. Picasso's use of texture and contrast is notable in this incredible work, as we witness the dark silhouette of the picador and bull against the white, green, yellow, and blue background. The slight relief on the figures adds detail so that they are not merely black shadows. The relief also adds a depth to the ceramic. A very slight hint of green also surrounds the figures, which gives an effect of them radiating energy. The use of large swaths of bright color on this  plate catches the eye and displays Picasso's mastery of color. The yellow rushes down towards the Picador, capturing him in the light, while the bull is pulled down towards the dark blue at the bottom of the scene - foreshadowing the way in which this fight will end. Picasso captures the excitement and thrill involved with this dangerous sport in this stunning depiction.

Created in 1953, Picador et taureau (Picador and Bull), 1953 A.R. 197 is a round/square plate of white earthenware clay with engraving covered with oxidized paraffin and highlights with oxides under glaze (brown, green, yellow, blue, black) from the edition of 200. 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 Picador et taureau (Picador and Bull), 1953 A.R. 197 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. Madoura: Galerie Madoura, 1988. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 197 on pg. 107.
2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this work.