TEFAF will open on March 15 in Maastricht and announces allready some amazing suprises like Picasso’s Iconic Les Dormeurs. With a price tag exceeding 50 million USD, this monumental painting exemplifies the gallery’s commitment to showcasing the finest and most significant works of 20th-century art, as well as TEFAF Maastricht’s reputation as a leading destination for 20th-century art and design.
Les Dormeurs holds a prominent place not only within Picasso’s legacy but also in the history of modern art. This exceptional painting was chosen by Picasso’s renowned and longtime art dealer, Daniel-Henry Kahnweiler, to hang behind his desk, eventually becoming a symbol of Picasso’s genius. It was prominently featured in interviews and exhibitions, including Picasso’s groundbreaking retrospective at the Louvre in 1971—one of the rare occasions when the Mona Lisa was relocated to make space for another artwork. This iconic piece has been exhibited at some of the world’s most prestigious cultural institutions, including the Louvre, the Stedelijk Museum, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, Tate, the Centre Pompidou, and the Museu Picasso.
Picasso’s Deep Bond with His Muse
Created during Picasso’s later, prolific years, Les Dormeurs explores the profound emotional and intellectual connection between the artist and his muse. The painting captures the essence of his bond with Jacqueline, intertwining the roles of observer and subject into a uniquely fused presence. The work embodies Picasso’s signature blend of sensuality, creativity, and a poignant reflection on the passage of time. “Les Dormeurs is an outstanding example of Picasso’s later works—raw, urgent, and filled with creative energy,” says Robert Landau. “It continues to influence the visual language of contemporary art, particularly movements like Neo-Expressionism, and stands as one of Picasso’s most enduring achievements.”
A Highlight of TEFAF Maastricht 2025
Originally part of Kahnweiler’s famed collection, Les Dormeurs stands as a testament to Picasso’s artistic vision. As the centerpiece of Landau Fine Art’s presentation at TEFAF, Les Dormeurs will be one of the fair’s most highly anticipated highlights, reaffirming Picasso’s lasting influence and legacy. TEFAF remains a premier platform for 20th-century art, showcasing some of the finest works available on the market. Approximately one-third of the fair—up to 90 galleries—is dedicated to 20th-century art and design. This strong representation of 20th-century works—undoubtedly the finest in the world—underscores TEFAF’s commitment to this crucial artistic period.
