Swann Galleries’ offering of Old Master Through Modern Prints on Tuesday, May 8 forms a comprehensive survey of Western art history and the development of the modern style. More than 500 rare and superlative multiples are expected to garner nearly $4M. Leading the auction is a drypoint executed by Pablo Picasso at just 24 years old. Tête de femme, de profil, 1905, dates to the artist’s Rose (or Circus) Period. Works from this era are mostly candid representations of the lives and private moments of acrobats and gypsies near his home in Montmartre. Early proof impressions such as the current work, typically signed by the artist, are exceedingly scarce; the print is valued at $80,000 to $120,000. Picasso is represented in the sale with expressive works across a variety of printmaking techniques, as well as ceramics. A gift from Henri Matisse to a favorite model, Nadia Sednaoui, will also be
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