Forgotten Picasso portrait of Dora Maar sells for $37 mn

A previously unknown portrait by Pablo Picasso of French artist Dora Maar, who was his most famous muse, fetched 32 million euros ($37 million) at an auction in Paris on Friday, according to auction house Drouot. The piece, titled Bust of a Woman With a Flowery Hat, depicts the photographer, painter, and poet Dora Maar in a vibrant display of colors and bold black lines.

The painting was created on July 11, 1943, during a period when Picasso was deeply involved with Maar, who served as his muse and lover. The work showcases Picasso’s signature style from this period, featuring abstracted forms and emotional depth. It’s a striking example of Picasso’s exploration of portraits, especially his relationship with Dora Maar, who also had a significant impact on his artistic evolution.

The portrait was acquired by a private French collector in August 1944, just a year after Picasso completed it. The painting remained in their family until it was put up for auction this week, sparking excitement in the art world. It was sold to an undisclosed foreign buyer, who was present at the auction.

The painting’s sale price far surpassed its reserve of 8 million euros ($9.5 million), reflecting not only its historical significance but also the continued demand for works by the Spanish master. Picasso’s works often serve as a barometer for the global art market, and this sale is seen as a positive sign, especially given the recent slump in the sector.

Picasso’s pieces have long been a key part of the art world’s most prestigious auctions, with paintings from his varied periods drawing attention from both collectors and museums alike. This portrait of Dora Maar adds to his legacy as a painter who constantly reinvented himself while exploring complex themes of love, identity, and the human form.

The high price achieved for Bust of a Woman With a Flowery Hat underscores the ongoing fascination with Picasso’s art, particularly works that illuminate his personal life and his connections with women who inspired much of his most celebrated pieces.