Picasso: The Printmaker – A journey through the master’s little-known art

The British Museum in London presents a new exhibition titled “Picasso: The Printmaker,” highlighting the lesser-known printmaking career of one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. Open until March 30, 2025, the exhibition features over 80 works by Pablo Picasso, showcasing his exploration of printmaking from 1904 to 1971, two years before his death.

The exhibition opens with “The Frugal Meal,” an etching from 1904, created during Picasso’s Blue Period. This piece marks one of his first forays into printmaking in Paris. Throughout the exhibition, visitors can discover iconic works from various stages of his career, including series dedicated to themes such as the circus, bullfighting, and his personal relationships.

A highlight of the exhibition is the presentation of Suite 347, an impressive series of 347 prints created in 1968 when Picasso was 86 years old. These works reflect his diverse inspirations, referencing historical figures such as Honoré de Balzac, Rembrandt, El Greco, and even General Charles de Gaulle, set against the backdrop of social upheaval, particularly the events of May 1968 in France.

Overall, Picasso produced nearly 2,400 prints throughout his career, proving that his genius extended far beyond painting. The British Museum’s exhibition reveals this lesser-known side of the artist, further cementing his legacy as a master printmaker.