The most original genius of our time, Pablo Ruiz Picasso has drawn inspiration from classic myths and Oriental civilizations, created Cubism and pioneered Surrealism, switched in dazzling succession from one style to another — and yet throughout has remained inalienably Spanish, the true descendant of Goya and Velázquez, whose works he so frequently copied, and whom he so resembles in prodigality and passion.

In this book Picasso's works from all periods are reproduced in full color, illustrating the extraordinary range of his genius from his early Blue and Rose periods through his inexhaustible experiments with Cubism and frequent returns to classic naturalism and neo-realism. The great masterworks such as _Women of Avignon_ or _Guernica_ are included, but there are many rarely-seen works as well, several from Picasso's own private collection. The extensive Notes and authoritative Introduction provide basic information about Picasso's life and work.