1950 Vase chouette Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

The artwork presents a ceramic vessel shaped in a highly stylized form. The objects primary function as a container is secondary to its decorative purpose; it appears conceived primarily as a sculptural piece. Its overall shape is bulbous and asymmetrical, with a pronounced swelling near the middle that transitions into a slender neck and a rounded base. A small, pearlescent bead serves as an eye within the central motif.
The surface of the vessel is predominantly white, providing a stark contrast to the black graphic elements applied across it. These markings depict an avian creature – likely an owl – rendered in a simplified, almost hieroglyphic style. The artist employed bold lines and flattened planes to create the impression of the bird’s face and wings. The eyes are large and prominent, conveying a sense of alertness or perhaps even scrutiny.
The distribution of the black markings is not uniform. A dense cluster appears on the rounded portion of the vessel, while more sparse, linear designs adorn the neck and base. This unevenness contributes to the object’s dynamic visual rhythm. The artists use of negative space – the white areas surrounding the black forms – is crucial in defining the shape and enhancing the impact of the design.
The work seems to explore a dialogue between organic form and geometric abstraction. While the vessel retains a recognizable, albeit distorted, resemblance to an animal, its contours are also suggestive of abstract shapes and patterns. The choice of ceramic as a medium lends a tactile quality to the piece, further emphasizing the interplay between visual and sensory experience.
Subtly, theres a sense of playful distortion at work here. The vessel’s shape is not entirely naturalistic, nor are the markings strictly representational. This suggests an intention to move beyond mere imitation, towards a more imaginative and expressive form of representation. The owl motif itself carries connotations of wisdom, nocturnal observation, and perhaps even mystery – themes that resonate with the objects enigmatic presence.