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Gertrude Stein and Pablo Picasso: Artistic Friends

Gertrude Stein was one of the most famous writers and activists during the early twentieth century and she was a great supporter of the arts, especially the painter Pablo Picasso. Although they were from different countries and spoke different languages, both of them shared a love of art that transcended the differences.

Gertrude Stein was one of the first and most enthusiastic supporters of modernist art. Stein’s early patronage and friendship was critical to Picasso’s success. He even painted a portrait of her during his Rose Period that is currently on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. She also supported other artists, in a wide variety of mediums, including sculpture and literature, not just paintings. Her art collection included not just Picasso, but also Cezanne, Guaguin, and Renoir.

Some art historians wonder if Picasso would have enjoyed the success he had if not for her patronage. Early in the twentieth century it was predominantly her family that was purchasing his work and she was the one encouraging others. The first piece of his that she obtained was Young Girl With a Basket of Flowers. At the height of his career, when she could no longer afford to buy his art at such high prices, Picasso still continued to gift her pieces.

Gertrude Stein was wise enough to see how talented Picasso was before the rest of the world and began her collection early. You can now create your own collection of his work by browsing our wonderful Pablo Picasso art gallery. We have many of his most sought after pieces. Enjoy works such as Child Holding a Dove or Two Women Running on the Beach. Marvel at his Cubist work with Three Musicians or Woman Sitting in an Armchair. Admire his unique style in Portrait of a Woman in D’Hermine Pass. All of these would be a great start to an amazing modern art collection in your own home.