The Fine Art & Collectibles Sale
Lot 86:
Description
8 5/8 x 4 1/2 in (22 x 11.5 cm)
This remarkable 1971 exhibition catalog, titled Hommage À Picasso, was published by the renowned Galerie Berggruen in Paris to commemorate Pablo Picasso’s 90th birthday. The catalog features a striking portrait after Picasso’s own graphic work and includes 90 reproduced engravings. Notably, this particular copy is enhanced with a bold signature by Picasso himself on the title page, making it a rare and highly desirable example for collectors of both modern art and signed publications.
Published on October 25, 1971, this catalog was a tribute to the master’s artistic achievements and long-standing collaboration with the gallery. Picasso’s autograph appears prominently on the title page, inscribed in his iconic hand, and adds tremendous provenance and historic resonance to the already significant publication. Unlike mass-produced exhibition books, the presence of the artist’s signature here transforms it into a unique collectible.
Comparable signed catalogs from this period are extremely scarce in the market. Similar examples, especially those associated with landmark exhibitions, have consistently attracted strong interest at major auctions. A signed 1971 edition from Galerie Berggruen is particularly sought-after due to the occasion it commemorates and the close relationship between Picasso and the gallery, which was instrumental in promoting his graphic works.
Historically and academically, this catalog marks the celebration of Picasso’s enduring legacy at the age of 90, shortly before his passing in 1973. It encapsulates the culmination of a life dedicated to reinvention and visual experimentation. The signed catalog thus serves not only as a document of homage but also as a physical embodiment of Picasso’s sustained creative vitality in his later years.
Its size and format make it ideal for archival framing or elegant display in a private library, gallery, or office setting. It resonates with collectors who value documentation of modern art history, as well as with investors seeking blue-chip art signatures in book form.
Condition: ALL PROPERTY IS SOLD AS IS, WHERE IS, WITH NO RETURNS OR CANCELLATIONS.
Additional photographs and condition reports may be provided upon request as a courtesy only. Any condition report, catalogue description, image, certificate, report, document, authentication statement, authentication opinion, specialist opinion, or communication regarding origin, date, age, attribution, authenticity, authorship, signature, condition, provenance, or value is an opinion only and not a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Yakon Auctions.
The absence of reference to defects, restoration, wear, damage, handling marks, conservation, alteration, or repair does not mean the lot is free from such matters. Photographs are for reference only and may not accurately reflect color, tone, dimensions, condition, signature details, or the true state of the lot. Buyers should review all images carefully, as they form part of the description.
Provenance is provided by the consignor, prior owner, or most recent owner and may not be supported by records. All reports, COAs, appraisals, authentication letters, provenance statements, invoices, labels, or related documents, including any opinions, analyses, or conclusions therein, are provided as received from the consignor, prior owner, or third party, and have not been independently verified by Yakon Auctions. Such materials are for reference only and are not guarantees of authenticity, authorship, signature, origin, age, period, provenance, condition, or value.
All artworks, antiques, collectibles, autographed items, signed memorabilia, music memorabilia, records, photographs, posters, entertainment collectibles, and related items are offered based on information and documentation provided with the lot. Unless expressly stated, Yakon Auctions has not independently authenticated any signature, inscription, attribution, authorship, association, provenance, pressing detail, edition, period, origin, or related documentation.
Terms such as "attributed to, " "after, " "manner of, " "circle of, " "school of, " "in the artist’s style, " or similar language mean the lot is not guaranteed to be by the named artist, maker, signer, studio, or period. Exact authorship, origin, attribution, or date may be unknown, and the lot may not be included in any official catalogue raisonné, archive, registry, or recognized reference source.
Yakon Auctions makes no express or implied warranties or guarantees regarding authenticity, authorship, signature, origin, age, period, condition, provenance, attribution, description, value, or marketability. Buyers are responsible for due diligence and should seek independent expert advice before bidding.
No return, refund, cancellation, or bid retraction will be accepted based on disputes regarding authenticity, attribution, authorship, signature, condition, provenance, description, estimated value, market value, or buyer’s post-sale opinion.
Original invoices, reports, certificates, or documents shown in listings will be included only if all items listed on that document are purchased. If only part of the document relates to the purchased lot, a digital copy may be provided upon request at Yakon Auctions’ discretion.
Please bid responsibly. If you do not agree with auction sale principles, the "as is" nature of the property, or the binding nature of bidding, please do not bid.
For inquiries, please contact Support@yakonauctions.com.
Share this lot:
