Documentary Summary: In Pursuit of Picasso

In Pursuit of Picasso delves into one of the most extraordinary investigations in art history, centered on the mysterious "Lost Dove" painting, believed to have been created by Pablo Picasso during the Nazi occupation of Paris. What sets this story apart is the presence of blood on the artwork—believed to be Picasso's own—which serves as the crux of the documentary’s exploration.

The documentary follows the painstaking process of collecting DNA samples from Picasso’s living descendants in order to test them against the blood found on the "Lost Dove." Through interviews with art experts, historians, and forensic scientists, In Pursuit of Picasso chronicles the scientific efforts to confirm that the blood on the painting indeed belongs to Picasso, thereby authenticating the artwork as an undiscovered masterpiece.

This gripping narrative highlights both the technical challenges of conducting DNA analysis on decades-old material and the emotional stakes for Picasso’s family and the art world. The film paints a compelling picture of how Picasso’s personal and political struggles during the occupation may have been physically embedded in this haunting work, offering a deeper, more visceral understanding of his legacy.

The documentary serves as both a forensic mystery and a reflection on the artist's life, revealing how science and art intersect in the pursuit of truth.