Lot 223
  • 223

Edvard Munch

Estimate
60,000 - 80,000 USD
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Description

  • Edvard Munch
  • Woman (Das Weib) (W. 147; S. 122)
  • Inscribed lower left
  • Lithograph, 2nd state of 3
  • image: 463 by 597 mm 18 1/4 by 23 1/2 in
  • sheet: 504 by 651 mm
Lithograph, 1899, Woll's II of III, on heavy buff wove paper, printed by Petersen & Waitz, framed

Condition

The print is in good condition, with margins. A few tiny nicks and creases in upper and lower sheet edges. Old hinge stains in the upper edge. The verso in good condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

A duplicate from the Munch-Museet, and with a 1968 stamp on the verso. Also stamped on the verso, Frau Edvward Munchs / testamentariske gave / OSLO KOMMUNE.

She is the woman who dreams – the woman who enjoys life – and the woman as nun – who stands as a pale figure behind the trees. 

Edvard Munch

In this provocative image, Munch again uses the monochrome to present a generalization and symbolism of a subject which has roots in classical mythology, Christian iconography and in several literary works. Rather than depict the three different ages or phases of a woman’s life, instead he is aiming at different roles, psychological and otherwise, that a woman could assume. The figure on the left is presumably a nun, blending almost entirely into the background;  the woman in the middle represents sexuality, fecundity and sheer enjoyment of life and her surroundings; the figure on the right is spiritual and contemplative, set against a light background.