Bidspirit auction | AFTER PICASSO (1881–1973


AFTER PICASSO (1881–1973 - AFTER PICASSO (1881–1973) .Portrait of Françoise Gilot (The 1st of May). This monumental work is a notable lithographic interpretation of a 1946 drawing by Pablo Picasso, depicting Françoise Gilot, the artist's muse and partner during the post-war period. The composition is a masterclass in linear minimalism, utilizing continuous, fluid lines to define the subject’s face and her voluminous hair. Gilot is portrayed with a floral and leaf wreath, an iconographic element that associates her with classical goddesses and the theme of springtime rebirth, fitting for the ”1st of May” date inscribed on the work. The high-contrast, black-and-white aesthetic emphasizes the purity of Picasso's draftsmanship. By stripping away shading and perspective, the artist captures a sense of timeless elegance and psychological depth. The sheer scale of this piece—measuring over 1.3 meters with its frame—transforms the intimate portrait into a bold architectural statement, typical of the mid-20th-century fascination with monumental graphic arts. This piece represents a sophisticated fusion of mid-century modernism and classical beauty, making it a centerpiece for any significant interior. 110 x 95.5 xm Dimensions 110 x 95 cm