Lot #29: Picasso Authorized Reproduction

Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973) Title: Guernica (1937) Medium: Authorized museum reproduction / offset lithograph on paper Publisher: Shorewood Reproductions, New York Rights Holder Stamp: S.P.A.D.E.M. (Société de la Propriété Artistique des Dessins et Modèles) Printed: c. 1960s–early 1970s Notes on Work: “On extended loan to the Museum of Modern Art from Pablo Picasso” Description: This is a vintage, officially licensed reproduction of Pablo Picasso’s iconic anti-war painting Guernica (1937). The print was issued by Shorewood Reproductions under authorization from SPADEM, the French rights society that controlled reproduction of Picasso’s work. The presence of both the SPADEM credit (“S.P.A.D.E.M.”) and the Shorewood imprint confirms it as an authorized period reproduction, not a modern reprint. The text along the lower margin also references that Guernica was on extended loan to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York from Pablo Picasso. That language reflects the historical reality of the time: Picasso allowed MoMA to hold the original painting for decades, prior to its eventual return to Spain after his death and the restoration of democracy there. That phrasing, along with Picasso being listed as “(1881– )” (without a death year), dates this print to around the 1960s–early 1970s, likely while Picasso was still alive or very shortly after. These Shorewood / SPADEM prints were not cheap poster-shop items. They were distributed to universities, museums, and educational institutions as high-quality teaching prints of major modern works. Condition: Good vintage condition overall with expected signs of age and handling. There is visible edge creasing and wear along the lower margin, a small puncture/tear at the lower right border (likely from tacking), light surface scuffing and minor marks in the white border area. The printed image area itself presents well with strong contrast. The lower text margin (“S.P.A.D.E.M.” / “Published by Shorewood Reproductions”) is intact and untrimmed, which is important for authenticity and collector interest. Collectability / value: Because this is an authorized mid-century reproduction of Guernica — one of the most historically important artworks of the 20th century — it is considered desirable as vintage wall art and as a teaching print with provenance. This piece is sold unframed, as found. Pickup category timeslot {A}