La Danse des faunes

Frolicking fauns dance to the music of their cymbals and aulos in this original lithograph by Pablo Picasso.

The constant battle between the Apollonian and the Dionysian nature of a man is symbolized by Picasso's use of the aulos. This double reed instrument was the basic instrument in all the festivities in Ancient Greece especially in ceremonies that happened in the name of the god Dionysus. According to Nietzsche, the Apollonian attributes are reason, culture, harmony, and restraint. These are opposed to the Dionysian characteristics of excess, irrationality, lack of discipline, and unbridled passion.

This lithograph is an edition of 1,000 on Arches wove paper, stamped with the artist's signature on the bottom right. Editions of 200 were made with signatures. In excellent condition, the work is displayed in a high-quality vintage frame, complete with hand-gilded gold leafing, under anti-reflective and UV-protective glass.