Pablo Picasso – “Three Standing Nudes with...

Studies of Faces,” 1931. Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973)

Expressive ink drawing on paper presenting an intricate study of the human figure and physiognomy. The composition combines three closely grouped standing nude figures at left with an extraordinary succession of freely drawn faces and profile studies extending across the sheet. Dense cross-hatching, spontaneous contour lines and areas of open paper create a striking contrast between the heavily modeled figures and the lighter, almost calligraphic facial sketches.

The work possesses the immediacy and exploratory quality of an artist’s working sheet, where multiple ideas, gestures and expressions coexist within a single composition. The overlapping profiles and rapidly articulated heads transform the drawing into a compelling investigation of identity, anatomy and human expression. Signed “Picasso” at lower right.

The reverse bears a paper label headed “MUSEU PICASSO – Barcelona, España”, identifying the work as “Tres desnudos de pie con bocetos de rostros” and dating it 1931. The label also records “Colección” and measurements appearing as 21 x 30.5. Additional gallery and collection stamps are visible on the reverse, including Paris gallery markings and a circular collection/certification stamp. These labels and stamps are described as found on the work and are not presented as independent authentication.

TECHNIQUE
Pen and ink on paper.

Height: 8 1/8 in.
Width: 11 5/8 in.

PROVENANCE
Private collection; reverse bearing Museu Picasso label and additional Paris gallery/collection stamps.