Hommage à Antonio Machado

A superb colour lithograph after Pablo Picasso’s original 1959 design, commemorating the Spanish poet Antonio Machado (1875–1939). The composition features a minimalist yet poignant motif: a stylised green laurel wreath interwoven with a single golden-yellow ear of wheat — symbols evoking memory, honour, and poetic legacy. Above and below the wreath, Machado’s name is boldly inscribed in hand-drawn navy-blue lettering, conveying both simplicity and reverence.

The poster is signed in pencil by Picasso (1881–1973) in the lower margin, and bears the word Mourlot in fine script — referencing the renowned Atelier Mourlot, Picasso’s publisher and printer of the original poster. The text beneath commemorates two tribute events held in Machado’s memory: one in Collioure on 22 February 1959 — the town where the poet died in exile — and another in Paris at the Sorbonne annex on 25 February.

Set against a muted sage-grey background with soft cream and pale tones, the design strikes a delicate balance between solemnity and grace, reflecting both Machado’s literary legacy and Picasso’s refined, understated aesthetic.

Provenance: From the estate of John Geary, a celebrated illustrator and artist whose work spanned major global brands including Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal, Coca-Cola, Nike, Russian Standard, and Levi Strauss. Accompanied by a letter of authentication.