Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) – VISAGE TOURMENTÉ
22 carat gold repoussé plate Diameter: 16 3/8 in. Courtesy Christie’s Images Lt.d, 2013. (Click to enlarge). UPDATE: THIS MADE £193,875
THOSE unsure about whether to invest in art or gold might find an answer to their prayers at Christie’s. How about a solid gold plate designed by Picasso? Exactly such a unique piece will highlight a new annual sale of Picasso Ceramics just launched at Christie’s in South Kensington.
The auction will take place on June 18 and follows the sale of the Madoura Collection in 2012, which realised over £8 million.
A highlight of the sale is Visage Tourmenté. This 22 carat gold plate is estimated at £100,000-£150,000. Picasso created only a limited number of designs for precious metals. Of the 19 designs made in collaboration with celebrated goldsmith François Hugo, 20 were produced in silver and only one in gold. Visage Tourmenté was bought by the current owner directly from François Hugo in the early 1970’s and has not been seen in public for over 40 years.
The auction features 172 lots and includes unique pieces and works in editions. Estimates range of £100 to £150,000.
UPDATE: The gold plate made £193,875 and was the top lot in an auction that was 100 per cent sold. The sale attracted buyers from around the world.