Picasso’s connection to the mysterious owl creature was more than just symbolic—the surfaces of these owl vases allowed him to explore the ceramic medium in a very painterly manner. Observe the way the ruffling feathers of these birds are depicted: Different types of glazes have been used—one matte, one gloss; along with thick gouging techniques to create textural complexity and variety on multiple levels. Picasso’s approach to ceramics was known to be highly inventive, leading to him being regarded by some not only as the greatest artist of the 20th century, but the greatest and most inventive ceramicist of the time.

A visit to the New York apartment of Dr. Arthur and Mrs. Anita Kahn provided any visitor with a true celebration for the senses. During a lifetime of collecting, these dedicated connoisseurs assembled one of the most remarkable collections of Pablo Picasso ceramics and works on paper, and postwar American art. From their significant holdings of the work of Alexander Calder to Richard Pousette-Dart’s crowning glory, his 1958 painting Blood Wedding—the collection captures the energy and excitement of this important period. Though the couple came from humble beginnings—he, the son of an immigrant candy store owner, and she, the daughter of a seamstress—their interest in, and admiration for, the creative process led them to be rewarded with a collection that encompassed some of the most important artists of the postwar period. From Alexander Calder to Pablo Picasso, and David Smith to Stuart Davis, their holdings of art demonstrated an astute understanding of the creative process and their sheer joy at the works in their collection.