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PABLO PICASSO: (1881 - 1973) Spanish painter and sculptor whose changing, powerful thematic style...

Currency:USD Category:Everything Else / Other Start Price:NA Estimated At:5,000.00 - 7,000.00 USD
PABLO PICASSO: (1881 - 1973) Spanish painter and sculptor whose changing, powerful thematic style...
PABLO PICASSO: (1881 - 1973) Spanish painter and sculptor whose changing, powerful thematic style made him the foremost artist of the 20th century. A rare and superb original drawing executed and signed by the artist, featuring one of Picasso's best-loved motifs of the Matador and the Bull! This very fine example, titled "Les Matadores et Toros" is executed in gray ink wash on a 17 1/2" x 12" cream sheet, and signed and dated by Picasso at lower right: "Picasso 6.4.1961". According to a copy of a letter from Picasso's daughter, Paloma Picasso-Lopez dated Dec. 9, 1993 (included), this drawing was brought by Picasso to his villa Mas Notre-Dame-de-Vie in 1970, intended to be presented to friends. At that time, celebrated art critic Douglas Cooper, author of the classic book on Cubism, The Cubist Epoch, purchased several drawings from Picasso himself, including our this one, which comprises one of several studies based on the Bullfight in Arles attended many times by Picasso and friends. Cooper received the drawing from Picasso himself in 1970, before his friendship with the artist became strained upon the publication of his book in 1971. He then sold the artwork in 1979 to Milton Abrahms, a Palm Beach, Florida art patron who wished to open a modern art gallery, as stated in a copy of a letter from Cooper to Abrahms dated Aug. 15, 1979. In August 2000 Abrahms in turn donated this work to Ecco Corps of Jacksonville, Florida, to assist with Community Conservation Programs (original letter included). The piece comes to us directly from Ecco Corps, with corresponding original letters of provenance from Milton Abrahms and Ecco Corps. The drawing bears just the slightest trace of toning to edges. Otherwise in near fine condition, with unimpeachable provenance. A marvelous find, worthy of proud display. $5,000-7,000