Pablo Picasso Le Peintre, 1963 is an after Picasso that captures the inquisitive nature of an artist. It is common to use the term 'after' when referring to prints that were created based on an already existing painting. This work is based after the oil on canvas, Le peintre, from March 30, 1963. Picasso painted the oil on canvas referenced above and then worked with a master printmaker/publisher Guy Spitzer to reproduce the print in order to sell commercially. The edition sizes tend to be larger and the techniques more mechanical, but it is done with the artist's involvement and final hand signature on the work.

An artist stares contemplatively at his canvas as he lifts his brush to the surface. There is intensity in his brow line, and his expression is serious. Wild lines make up his beard, adding an element of frenzy to the creative process. The hand of the man also contains movement – Picasso has layered multiple outlines of the hand to create this motion to and fro across the canvas. The use of hand applied Pochoir makes this a very special work, giving the appearance of watercolor. It adds a lovely texture and complexity to the collotype.

Created in 1963, this work was published by Guy Spitzer and contains his publisher’s embossed blindstamp in the lower left side of the image. Printed on Arches wove watermarked paper, this work is hand-signed by Pablo Picasso (Malaga, 1881 – Mougins, 1973) in blue crayon in the lower right hand side of the work. The plate has also been signed by Picasso in the lower left. Stamp on verso reads, ‘Pablo Picasso Le Peintre Tirage Signé par l’artiste numeroté et limité a 350 exemplaires cette épreuve port le No 350.’

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
Pablo Picasso The Painter (Le Peintre), 1963 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. Wofsy, Alan, The Picasso Project, The Sixties II, 2002, recorded with letter from Guy Spitzer on page x.
2. Picasso and the Allure of Language Exhibition Catalogue, Yale University Art Museum 2008.
3. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this artwork.

About the Framing:
Framed to museum-grade, conservation standards, Pablo Picasso The Painter (Le Peintre), 1963 is presented in a complementary moulding and optical grade Plexiglas.