Tête de femme (Françoise Gilot)
Print on paper, likely a lithograph or a high-quality reproduction (facsimile) • After Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973); the signature 'Picasso' is present in the plate/stone
Style & Movement
Modernism / Cubist-influenced Line Drawing; specifically the Vallauris period style
Medium & Technique
Lithography or offset printing imitating a line drawing; executed with minimalist, continuous line technique
Creation Period
Modern period, original design dated circa 1946-1950; this specific print appears to be a later 20th-century edition
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 10 inches within the mat; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A stylized portrait of a woman, identified as Françoise Gilot, Picasso's muse and partner. The composition uses sparse, elegant lines to define the facial structure and hair, reflecting the artist's interest in Greek and Roman classicism paired with modern abstraction.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good; the paper appears relatively clean, though there is potential for light toning or acidity from the matting
Estimated Market Value
$200 - $800 (if a verified lithograph from a posthumous edition) or $50 - $100 (if a purely decorative photomechanical reproduction)
Auction Estimate
$150 - $500
Provenance History
Unknown; likely an editioned print or a decorative high-end gallery reproduction. No visible gallery labels or edition numbers are seen on the front.
Art Historical Significance
Representational of Picasso's mastery of the 'single line' and his obsession with Françoise Gilot during his post-war years. These drawings became iconic symbols of French modernism and influenced graphic design and minimalism.
Notable Features
Features a printed facsimile signature and a mirrored/reverse date/inscription commonly found in lithographic transfers from the period.
Condition Issues
Visible reflection from glass suggests non-UV protective framing; potential for light foxing or yellowing due to standard mat board edges; no major tears or visible creases.
Conservation Recommendations
Re-frame using acid-free archival matting and UV-filtering museum glass to prevent paper degradation and fading of the ink lines.