Edition 31 of 50

Provenance:

Private collection, North Rhine-Westphalia

Private collection, North Rhine-Westphalia (by descent)

With this work, Pablo Picasso opens the door to his private life: The playful portrait shows the artist's youngest daughter, Paloma, playing with a doll. Paloma Picasso was the second child of Picasso and Françoise Gilot, born in 1949. Gilot, an important artist and writer, was Picasso's partner from 1943 to 1953 after meeting in Paris. Their relationship was creative and tumultuous, characterised by intense artistic collaboration and emotional tensions that were already palpable in 1952, the year our work was created. In contrast, the portrait of the daughter appears full of devotion and affection. In 'Paloma et sa Poupée sur Fond noir', Picasso shows his daughter in a moment of innocence and play. Paloma is depicted in a childlike pose, her facial features are gentle and friendly. She has large, expressive eyes that radiate curiosity and joy. Her hair is kept in a simple but charming cut, and her cheeks are childishly chubby. The black doll she is holding is equally stylised and contrasts strongly with Paloma's bright appearance.

The background of the lithograph is minimised and abstracted, keeping the focus on the two figures. The use of black and white enhances the emotional impact of the image and makes the forms appear alive. Therefore, The motif is a portrait of a special moment between father and daughter and an example of Picasso's ability to express emotions and relationships through simple yet powerful visual means.

Galerie Utermann