Man Ray

Acquis directement auprès de l'artiste

Executed on a fream wove paper. The sheet is taped to the mount at the two upper corners. Apart from a crease at the lower right corner, this work is in very 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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

signed 'Man Ray' and dated '1941' lower right, watercolour and ink on paper. Executed in Hollywood in 1941.

Fig. 1  Man Ray, L'Homme infini, 1942, huile sur toile

 

La déshumanisation des figures féminines et masculines par la géométrisation de leur forme et leur transformation en mannequins dépourvus d'identité propre est un thème récurrent des années hollywoodiennes de Man Ray. Les figurines, privées de visage, apparaissent souvent dans un environnement labyrinthique ou désertique, exprimant ainsi la précarité du destin de tout homme, tout particulièrement dans le contexte violent de la guerre qui sévit Outre Atlantique. Les formes géométriques de ces mannequins désarticulés soulignent leur rôle mécanique dans la guerre, leur fragilité et leur vulnérabilité face aux 'forces obscures' qui gouvernent alors le monde.