Pablo Picasso Oil on Canvas

Updated September 8, 2026

Title: Bust of a Woman Technique: Oil on canvas Measures: 31 x 23 inches (78.7 x 58.4 cm) Year: 1939, according to inscriptions on the work and reverse Condition: Good condition. The painted surface presents vivid coloration, clearly defined outlines, and layered applications of pigment throughout. Minor surface wear and handling marks consistent with age and display may be present. The canvas appears stable and display-ready, retaining its saturated palette and strong visual impact. Presented in an ornate gold-tone frame showing light age-related wear. Provenance: From a private collection in Queens, New York. According to family history, the work descended within a Spanish family that established itself in Queens after emigrating to the United States. Documentation concerning its original acquisition in Spain or subsequent transfer to New York is unavailable. This provenance reflects the ownership history supplied when the artwork was received for cataloging. Visual Description: This vibrant portrait depicts a red-haired woman shown frontally against a deep green background. Her face is reorganized through asymmetrical eyes, a sharply angular profile, and overlapping frontal and lateral viewpoints. Alternating red and orange bands define the sitter’s hair, while geometric diamond-shaped elements and a repeated zigzag pattern decorate her clothing. The bold outlines, flattened forms, distorted perspective, and intense palette recall the Cubist and Surrealist-influenced portraiture associated with Pablo Picasso during the late 1930s. Bears an inscription reading “Picasso” near the upper left and a vertically arranged date appearing as “3.6.39” along the left side. Additional Information: A Marlborough-Gerson Gallery label is affixed to the reverse and appears to identify Pablo Picasso as the artist, Buste de femme as the title, oil on canvas as the medium, and 1939 as the execution year. A large painted inscription reading “3.6.39” also appears on the reverse. These labels, inscriptions, dates, and stylistic associations are reported solely for cataloging purposes and do not independently establish authenticity, authorship by Pablo Picasso, exhibition history, or a documented gallery transaction. This composition reflects stylistic elements commonly associated with major figures in modern and contemporary art. For additional information regarding certification, provenance, or any inquiries about this piece or other items, please don't hesitate to contact us through the HiBid platform. A secondary market exists for uncatalogued artworks like this one, which often results in lower estimated and sale prices compared to catalogued artist works. If you have any specific questions or require further assistance in understanding the value, context, or details of this artwork, we are here to help and provide any additional information you may need.

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