What an intriguing side of Picasso! I really like daschunds AND photography, too, so this was a neat book to see! ( )

This is a love story, and it is graphic, and there is also some sex.

This is also a beautiful book and it is to be read while sipping something such as a “tisane” (and evoke memories), or a coffee, or a glass of wine, or may be even some Scotch.

Lump, the protagonist, accompanied by his caretaker and documentarian David Douglas Duncan, visits Picasso and Jacqueline in their beautiful house, La Californie, in Cannes.





The documentarian takes photos and photos, all in black and white, with his Leica, and witnesses the growth of love between Lump and Picasso, and also between Lump and Jacqueline.





Lump is also a witness to the love between Picasso and Jacqueline.



This is in 1956-57.


Documentation is also left of Lump’s marriage to Lolita (what a literary suggestive name). Picasso acted as the camorrero as we say in Spanish. Lolita arrives beautifully attired with some lace round her neck ready for her nuptials. As she was also, like Lump, a Dachshund, they were expected to produce pure breeds. But there was no issue.


The poignant moment in the drama is when Picasso, the host, offered the cardboard Rabbit to Lump:



And yes, Lump ate it ! , but the spoiler is in the Title as well.


In proof of his love for Lump, Picasso offered him this:




And since Picasso was very aware of posterity, he immortalized Lump in his version of the other immortal painting, Veláquez’s Las Meninas.






In honor to them both, the book closes with this Amigos Forever, which they have both remained since 1973:






P.S.: For the sex scene between Lolita and Lump, you would have to buy the book. ( )

Hermitage Amsterdam, 24 april 2010

A quirky and heartwarming peek into the past of an artistic genius and the diminutive pooch that inspired his work. As any proud owner of a dachshund can tell you, their will’s are indomitable and their characters can force a smile even from the most melancholy of hearts. This quick read is well worth your time and money if you are interested in an intimate glimpse into Picasso’s past and the little dog that forced his way into an artistic master’s heart. ( )