Owl Vessel

Pablo Picasso, 1951

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About This Work

Picasso's owl ceramics are among the most beloved works from his Vallauris period. The vessel's body forms the owl's plump torso, while the handle becomes a wing and the spout transforms into the beak. The surface is painted with characteristic boldness — large eyes staring directly at the viewer, feathers suggested with rapid brushstrokes. Picasso kept owls as pets and was fascinated by their nocturnal, watchful quality.

Picasso began working in ceramics at the Madoura pottery in Vallauris in 1947 and produced over 3,500 ceramic works in the following years. The Madoura workshop produced both unique pieces and limited editions. His ceramics transformed the art world's perception of pottery as a fine art medium.

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