The Picasso ceramic numbered A.R. 296, titled “Femme” (“Woman”), is a white earthenware turned pitcher conceived and executed in 1955 at the esteemed Madoura pottery studio in Vallauris, France. This piece is a compelling example of Picasso’s ceramic artistry during the mid‑1950s, a period when he fully embraced clay as a medium for sculptural and painterly expression.

Standing approximately 30.5 cm (12 in) tall with a width of about 11 cm, the pitcher combines functional form with expressive decoration. The surface is enhanced with coloured engobe—a liquid clay slip used for painted decoration—and partially glazed on the interior, creating subtle contrasts and a lively interplay of tones. The stylised figure of a woman, suggested through fluid, abstracted lines and geometric shapes, reflects Picasso’s lifelong interest in the human form and his ability to convey personality and emotion with economical markings.

Produced in a limited edition of 100 pieces, each example of “Femme” is numbered and bears the characteristic Madoura stamped mark on the underside, authenticating its origin.

This ceramic pitcher embodies Picasso’s unique vision: it merges traditional pottery techniques with his modernist language of form, resulting in an artwork that transcends mere utility to become a vivid expression of artistic innovation.

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