PICASSO, Pablo
 
Visages. (Faces); collotype, published by Robert-J. Godet, Éditeur, Paris in 1943.
 
Description
 
From the numbered run of 500 impressions; printed on Lafuma paper (this example bearing the specific distribution provenance of Guy Le Prat, Éditeur).
Geiser-Baer 683; Bloch 361.
The original composition was executed by Picasso in 1943 at the height of the German Occupation of Paris. This print run relied on procédés typographiques courants (ordinary commercial typographic processes). Consequently, under magnification, the ink layer presents the characteristic, industrial micro-grain typical of mid-century automated typographic presses. And although the production of these impressions was relatively simplistic, it represents a monumental achievement in wartime publishing because of severe material shortages. The edition of 500 was distributed entirely underground and out of view of the Vichy/Nazi censors. It was in itself an act of defiance against the occupying force.
In fine condition, without fading or toning to the paper. Framed and glazed, contemporary wooden frame with black finishing; mounted over black. Sheet size, 27.8x22.1cm; external, 41.8x31.7cm.