Picasso Portrait of Dora Maar Fetches $31 Million at Auction

A rare portrait by Pablo Picasso, depicting his muse Dora Maar, sold for approximately $31.3 million at auction on March 15, 2024. The painting, titled “Bust of a Woman with a Flowered Hat (Dora Maar),” was created in July 1943 and had remained hidden from public view for over eighty years. The auction took place at the Drouot Auction House in Paris, marking a significant event in the art world.

This vividly colored work showcases Maar in a striking floral hat, embodying both her beauty and the complexities of her relationship with Picasso, which was nearing its end at the time of creation. Acquired in 1944, the painting had not been available on the market since then, remaining within the family collection. The Drouot Auction House described the sale as “a moment of rare significance,” highlighting the painting’s long-hidden brilliance.

Artistic Significance and Expert Praise

Art specialist Agnes Sevestre-Barbé expressed her admiration for the portrait during a preview, noting its impressive preservation. “We have a painting that is exactly as it was when it left the studio,” she remarked. “It wasn’t varnished, which means we have all its raw material, all of it. It’s a painting where you can feel all the colors, the entire chromatic range.” Her enthusiasm was palpable as she emphasized the painting’s expressive quality, stating, “It’s a painting that speaks for itself. You just have to look at it — it’s full of expression, and you can see all of Picasso’s genius.”

Previously, the work had only been documented through a black-and-white photograph, making its vibrant colors and intricate details a revelation for many art enthusiasts. Sevestre-Barbé noted, “We couldn’t imagine from this photo that this painting was so colorful, so amazing, really.”

Global Interest and Market Impact

The auction attracted global attention, with Christophe Lucien, the auctioneer, highlighting the widespread interest in the piece. “It’s being talked about in all the world capitals with a strong art market, from the United States to Asia, and of course through all the major European markets,” he stated before the sale. The portrait’s reappearance is expected to further influence Picasso’s market and reinforce the artist’s enduring legacy.

This auction not only underscores the financial value of Picasso’s work but also emphasizes the cultural significance of his relationship with Dora Maar, who was not only a muse but also an accomplished artist and photographer in her own right. As the art world reflects on this sale, it becomes clear that “Bust of a Woman with a Flowered Hat” is more than just a painting; it is a testament to a profound artistic connection and the vibrant colors of life captured on canvas.