Tête de Femme (Head of a Woman), from La Suite des Saltimbanques
Print; drypoint on paper • Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973)
Style & Movement
Rose Period / Early Modernism
Medium & Technique
Drypoint etching on Van Gelder Zonen or similar wove paper, characterized by delicate burr lines and cross-hatching to create tonal depth.
Creation Period
1905 (Plate); published later in 1913 by Vollard
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 9 cm (Plate size); Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A profile portrait of a female head (often identified as Madeleine, a model and mistress of Picasso). The composition features fine line work, prominent cross-hatching in the shadows, and a melancholic expression typical of his Saltimbanque era.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; the work shows significant foxing and uneven yellowing of the paper support.
Estimated Market Value
$3,000 - $6,000 USD (Reflecting condition issues)
Auction Estimate
$2,500 - $4,500 USD
Provenance History
Part of the 'Suite des Saltimbanques'. Likely from the edition of 250 published by Ambroise Vollard in 1913. Signature 'Picasso 1905' is etched in the plate (lower left corner, rotated).
Art Historical Significance
A seminal early print from Picasso's transition between the Blue and Rose periods. It is one of the fifteen etchings and drypoints documenting his fascination with circus performers and intimate portraits during his early years in Paris at the Bateau-Lavoir.
Notable Features
Includes the plate-stamped signature and date 'Picasso 1905'. The visibility of the plate mark (indentation) confirms its status as an original intaglio print rather than a lithographic reproduction.
Condition Issues
Evident foxing (brown spots) across the image area, overall paper oxidation (toning), and possible moisture staining at the bottom edges. Possible slight fading due to UV exposure.
Conservation Recommendations
Requires professional deacidification and foxing treatment by a paper conservator. Should be mounted with acid-free materials and protected by UV-filtering glass. Keep in a climate-controlled environment with low humidity.