Unique Auctions is starting 2026 with a bang — and a brushstroke of genius — with its prestigious New Year’s Antiques & Collectors Auction on 1st and 2nd January, featuring an exceptional ceramic piece by Pablo Picasso.
The highlight of the sale is a rare Picasso ‘Hibou’ (Owl) Vase, a striking example of the artist’s collaboration with the Madoura Pottery Studio in Vallauris, France. This piece embodies Picasso’s fascination with the owl — a creature he often sketched and sculpted, especially after adopting a real owl in the late 1940s. Owls held personal symbolism for Picasso, often representing mystery, wisdom, and transformation — themes reflected in his post-war work.
The ‘Hibou’ vase, crafted in white earthenware with hand-painted decoration, is part of the highly collectable Editions Picasso ceramics series. These ceramics were made in limited numbers under Picasso’s direct supervision between 1947 and 1971 at the Madoura studio. Each bears the distinctive ‘Edition Picasso’ and ‘Madoura Plein Feu’ stamps, marking them as authentic studio works — not reproductions.
Ceramics like this have seen rising interest among collectors, museums, and investors, with Picasso pottery fetching impressive results at recent international auctions. The vase to be sold at Unique Auctions is a standout opportunity to own a museum-worthy piece by one of the 20th century’s most celebrated artists.
The sale will feature over 1,000 lots across two days, including prestige antiques, fine art, jewellery, watches, and rare collectables.
Catalogues and condition reports will be available online at:
👉 www.unique-auctions.com
Bid live online or in person and start 2026 with a true masterpiece.
