PICASSO, Pablo
 
Nature Morte (1942); in first edition collotype, published for the esteemed Editions du Chene in Paris, 1948.
 
Description
 
The lithograph print is in near fine condition. A very good impression, and remains unfaded.
Presented in a Parsonage Studio frame, bearing their crown stamp to verso. Wood with black finish to complement the work. Framed and glazed.
The ‘du Chene’ suite was pressed in comparatively minute runs after the war, though unnumbered. Scarce in this condition.
The original oil painting was executed by Picasso during the Occupation of Paris by the Germans. Notably Picasso’s palette then reflected the dark, oppressive period. Though explicit in not painting war itself, Picasso’s concern showed in his work. He was the most targeted of the so-called ‘degenerate’ artists by the occupying Nazis. Thus under continuous surveillance by the Gestapo. While many artists abandoned Paris in 1941, after the arrival of the Germans, Picasso stayed. Then without French citizenship, it was only Picasso’s fame which helped him avoid the ever-present risk of extradition to Franco’s Spain and possible execution. He was an outspoken enemy of Franco after painting Guernica in 1939, and consequently of Hitler and Goebbels, who during this period set about moulding all modern art to the Reich’s taste.
Image, 27.6x20.2cm; external, 49.8x39.6cm.