Soft, romantic pastel hues decorate this glistening white earthenware clay Pablo Picasso ceramic Plate D "Fruits from Provence", 1948 A.R. 58. The central image rendered in a cool and quenching blue, reminiscent of a succulent plant, anchors the composition, while leaves on a vine adorn the border in a soft green. Though this work brings to mind imagery of succulents, the abstract design encourages each individual to see something new and unique within this remarkable ceramic.

Picasso experimented with a large variety of ceramic forms during his career - from plates and bowls, to pitchers, and tripods. Picasso also experimented with making service sets. Plate D comes from the Fruits from Provence service. The total service is composed of a dish, 12 plates, and twelve bowls. Generally there is a unifying decorative theme that ties together the service set - in this case it is fruits from Provence. While still immensely enjoyable aesthetically, the fact that these were made as part of a "service" set perhaps implies that they could be perceived as more utilitarian that other Picasso ceramics. On the other hand, it may just be another way to place them within a series that has a certain decorative theme.

Created in 1948, this white earthenware clay plate with decoration in engobes and oxides under glaze is from the edition of 100. Features the hand written inscription "d'apres Picasso" and "Madoura" in black ink on the bottom.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
Pablo Picasso ceramic Plate D"Fruits from Provence" Service, 1948 A.R. 58  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 raisonné no. 58.

2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this work.