Description
This drawing presents six studies for Picasso’s monumental sculpture in Richard J. Daley Plaza in Chicago, unveiled in 1967. Although Picasso claimed the sculpture was inspired by his dog, an Afghan hound, others have suggested it is reminiscent of his model Sylvette David (born 1934).
Provenance
Galerie Louise Leiris, Paris [label on mat]. Sold by the Allan Frumkin Gallery, Chicago, to the Art Institute, 1967.
Accession Number
28024
Medium
Graphite on ivory wove paper
Dimensions
41.9 × 27 cm (16 1/2 × 10 11/16 in.)
Classification
graphite
Credit Line
Purchased with funds provided by William E. Hartmann
Background & Context
Background Story
Pablo Picasso's Six Busts of Women (May 21, 1962) is a graphite drawing on ivory wove paper showing six studies of women's heads. Picasso (1881-1973) was one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. This drawing from 1962, late in his career, shows his continued engagement with the female form. The six busts are rendered with rapid, confident lines, each one a variation on the theme of the female face.
Cultural Impact
Picasso's late drawings demonstrate his inexhaustible creativity and his ability to find endless variation within a single subject.
Why It Matters
This drawing of six women's busts shows Picasso's late mastery of line, each variation on the female face rendered with confident economy.
