Las Meninas (Infanta Margarita María)
Painting on canvas • Pablo Picasso
Style & Movement
Cubism / Surrealism (Late Period); part of a series of interpretations of Velázquez's 'Las Meninas'.
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas; features expressive brushwork, bold impasto, and geometric deconstruction of form characteristic of the artist's late style.
Creation Period
Cannes, September 14, 1957
Dimensions & Format
100 x 81 cm; Portrait format.
Subject Description
The painting depicts the Infanta Margarita Teresa, the central figure from Diego Velázquez's 1656 masterpiece. Picasso deconstructs the figure into geometric planes of blue, green, and white, seated against a dark background that emphasizes the volume of her farthingale (skirt).
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; well-preserved in a museum environment.
Estimated Market Value
$40,000,000 - $60,000,000 (Valuation based on the historical significance of the Meninas series and the artist's market standing; note that as a museum gift, it is considered non-commercial and priceless).
Auction Estimate
$35,000,000 - $55,000,000
Provenance History
Donated by the artist to the Museu Picasso in 1968 in memory of Jaime Sabartés.
Art Historical Significance
This work is a critical piece of Picasso's 1957 series comprising 58 paintings where he exhaustively analyzed Velázquez's work. It represents a dialogue between two of Spain's greatest masters and illustrates Picasso's obsession with artistic heritage and metamorphosis.
Notable Features
Bold chromatic contrast between the Infanta's face (blue and green) and the yellow dress. Visible museum wall label identifies it as part of the permanent collection of the Museu Picasso, Barcelona.
Condition Issues
Stable; minor surface dust may be present due to high-traffic exhibition, but no structural damages, flaking, or significant craquelure are visible.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain stable humidity (45-55%) and temperature (approx 20°C). Display under low UV lighting. Periodical professional inspection for canvas tension.