Artist: Pablo Picasso, 1881-1973

Title: Le Vieux Bouffon

Date: 1963

Medium: Linoleum cut printed in black on 'papier ordinaire'

Signature: Dated in the plate

Description: An impression of the third state of three of the “Cinquième plateau: le noir” printed on “papier ordinaire.” This proof was printed whilst the paper was still wet, as one can feel the cuts of the linoleum embossed on the paper. Picasso expert Brigitte Baer records one such impression. However, we know of two other similar impressions and another impression of this state printed on Arches paper, so at least three impressions of this state must have been printed and not seen by Baer. Stamped in ink verso, 'Imprimerie Arnéra Archives/Non Signé'.

Reference: Bloch 1152; Baer 1338 fifth plate 'le Noir' third state and final state

Dimensions: 31 1/4 x 23 1/2 in.

Framed Dimensions: 45 5/8 x 40 3/4 in.

Inventory Number: 914016