1968 Chouette 1 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1962-1973

The ceramic object presents a stylized avian form, rendered in a palette dominated by grey-green and cream tones, punctuated with accents of brown and turquoise. The overall impression is one of simplified naturalism, where recognizable features are abstracted into decorative elements.
Here we see a bulbous body, tapering upwards to a narrow neck and culminating in a circular opening. This form suggests both organic growth and deliberate construction. The base consists of three short, stout legs, providing stability while contributing to the object’s slightly whimsical character.
The surface is adorned with painted motifs. A large, stylized wing sweeps across the body, its brown lines radiating from a central point, creating a sense of dynamic movement. Above this, a circular design featuring concentric rings and a central turquoise dot evokes an eye or perhaps a simplified floral pattern. These decorative elements are not applied uniformly; instead, they appear somewhat scattered, contributing to a feeling of spontaneity and folk art influence.
The artist’s use of color is noteworthy. The grey-green provides a grounding neutrality, allowing the cream and brown details to stand out. The turquoise accents introduce a vibrant contrast that draws the eye and adds visual interest.
Subtly, the object seems to explore themes of transformation and adaptation. The avian form, while recognizable, is altered through simplification and decoration, suggesting a shift from natural representation to symbolic expression. The asymmetry in the placement of the decorative elements hints at an intentional rejection of rigid formality, favoring instead a more intuitive and personal aesthetic. The overall effect is one of playful sophistication – a functional object elevated by artistic embellishment.