Lithograph from the series "347 "
Arches velin paper, dimensions : 32 x 40 cm in light double passe-partout, 44 x 52 cm in framed passe-partout,
Limited edition, unnumbered,
Signed on stone in lower right corner "Picasso", date mirrored ". II 15.17.68. .
Publisher: Galerie Louise Leiris, Paris, in collaboration with the studio of the Crommelynck brothers in Mougins).
Picasso's series of 347, created in 1968 when the artist was 87 years old, is one of the most remarkable and prolific works of his late career. The series consists of 347 engravings and etchings that Picasso created in just seven months, an astonishing achievement considering his age.
During this period of his life, Picasso felt absolutely free of any conventions or expectations. He was free to create what he wanted, in whatever way he felt most appropriate.
The series is full of bold, often provocative erotic scenes that explore human sexuality and the act of voyeurism. Picasso often depicted himself as an observer, sometimes a clown or an old man who admires young, beautiful models. This is a reflection of his own relationships with younger women despite his age.
Picasso's series 347, because of its subject matter and form, received a mixed and often controversial reception, both among critics and the public. At the time, even though Picasso was already an established artist, this openness and directness, especially for someone of his age, shocked and outraged many viewers. Some critics interpreted the works as a sign of an old man's obsession with sex and youth, and even accused Picasso of misogyny.
In some circles, the series was seen as an example of degenerate art, unresponsive to "serious" social or artistic themes.
The 347 series is considered one of the key works of Picasso's late period, demonstrating his enduring vitality, creativity and mastery of printmaking.
