Two figures; left figure balanceing on right figure's leg and arms

%C2%A9 Estate Pablo Picasso %2F Artists Rights Society %28ARS%29%2C New York %2F ADAGP%2C Paris

Pas de deux, 1925

Not on Viewexpand_more

Picasso had a complicated relationship with dance. He reveled in the Ballet Russe, which brought him into contact with other artists and gave him entrée into upper class Parisian society. In 1918, he married Olga Kholkhova a dancer in the troupe. Though Picasso sought high society, he could not abide by its regimentation and Olga’s insistence that he behave. As a result they frequently came into conflict.

Two Dancers seems full of empathy for the awkwardly powerful male tasked with helping the graceful woman appear as weightless as possible. Picasso employed an exceptionally spare, sensitive line that recalls the painting on Greek vases. His use of this style during the early 1920’s caused this to become labeled as his classical period.

Details
Title
Pas de deux
Artist Life
(active France), 1881–1973
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2015.130.1
Provenance
Ludwig Charell (New York, 1956); Rosalynd Pflaum, Wayzata, MN, 1956-2014; by descent to her sons Peter and Stephen
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

Does something look wrong with this image? Let us know

Two figures; left figure balanceing on right figure's leg and arms

© Estate Pablo Picasso / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York / ADAGP, Paris

Because of © restrictions, we can only show you a small image of this artwork.