Owls and doves were the two types of birds most frequently seen in his work. Pablo saw them as having different characters, and would therefore use them for different purposes.
The original title of this simple sketch was simply - La Colombe, or, The Dove. It developed a strong following after being drawn in January 1949.
Picasso created an image that became a true symbol of peace and hope during the Cold War.
The first incarnation from Picasso was selected as main poster for the First International Peace Conference in Paris in 1949. This was a detailed artwork which captured a pigeon accurately.
This particular bird had actually been given to him by fellow artist, Henri Matisse.
Soon afterwards, Picasso simplified this work into an abstract drawing which we include in this page. Paloma, the spanish word for dove, would also become the name of his fourth child.
The Dove of Peace became a popular symbol for campaigners of peace, liberation and equality all around the world.
As a child, Pablo's family kept pigeons in their family home. He would continue this into his own adult life, both during his stay in Paris and also the South of France.
Pigeons also feature frequently in other areas of Picasso's work, such as in Les Pigeons, Cannes (1957). This was a bright, lively artwork which captured the beauty of this part of the country.
