A cushion-form white stoneware by Pablo Picasso, made at the Madoura pottery in Vallauris in 1956. The front face is worked in relief — a female profile resolved in Picasso's most economic line. The form sits as naturally upright as it does laid flat.

Madoura was run by Suzanne and Georges Ramié, and Picasso worked there continuously from 1947 until the end of his life — producing ceramics as both unique works and editions. The relationship between Picasso and Vallauris was one of the most significant collaborations between a modern artist and a craft workshop. Jacqueline Roque, depicted here in profile, became his wife in 1961 and was the subject of more portraits than any other person in his life.

Impressed to the underside: Empreinte Originale de Picasso and Madoura Plein Feu. Edition of 500.