Picasso Living Face Vase Value Guide

The 1963 Picasso Living Face vase is a hallmark of the artist's prolific collaboration with the Madoura pottery studio in Vallauris, France. This 'Visage Vivant' series exemplifies Picasso's ability to transform utilitarian ceramic forms into expressive, playful works of abstract art.

What Is Picasso Living Face Vase Worth?

The typical price range for Picasso Living Face Vase is $2,000 - $2,500 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of original Madoura studio markings and clear provenance significantly increases market value.
• Condition is critical; any chips, cracks, or restoration to the ceramic or glaze will lower the $2,000-$2,500 valuation.
• The vibrancy and preservation of the colored glazes, which define the 'Living Face' aesthetic, impact desirability.
• Rarity of the specific edition number within the 1963 production run can influence final auction prices.

How to Identify Picasso Living Face Vase?

• Look for the 'Edition Picasso' and 'Madoura Plein Feu' stamps impressed on the base of the ceramic.
• Verify the specific 1963 production date and the 'Visage Vivant' series cataloging.
• Examine the glaze for the characteristic vibrant, hand-painted abstract facial features unique to the Madoura workshop style.
• Check for the presence of an edition number, as these were typically produced in limited quantities.

History of Picasso Living Face Vase

Pablo Picasso's ceramic work began in 1946 when he visited the Madoura pottery studio in Vallauris, France. Enchanted by the medium, he created thousands of pieces, transforming utilitarian objects into works of art. The 'Visage Vivant' or 'Living Face' series, from which this vase originates, is one of his most recognizable ceramic collections, reflecting his playful and expressive approach to form and function. These pieces were often produced in limited editions, making them highly sought after by collectors.