Isaac Israels

Kunsthandel Borzo, 's-Hertogenbosch

's-Hertogenbosch, Kunsthandel Borzo, Najaarstentoonstelling, 18 October - 8 November 1975, no. 22, illustrated

Original canvas. There is a vertical 12 cm restored tear in the background left of the figure on the left. This work would benefit from cleaning.
"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."

In the period 1921-1922 Isaac Israels stayed for one year in Indonesa. It was an extremely fruitfull trip. The people of the islands fascinated him, from the local rulers to the dancing girls, the gamelan players and even the beggars in the streets. Isaac always remained a painter of people. The wonderful landscape impressed him, but not as a source for his art. Except for a two weeks stay on Bali, Israels mainly worked on Java. From Solo, where he painted the present lot, he wrote to his friend Willem Witsen on 22 February 1922: 'It is really wonderful to paint here. I am working myself half to death ...'. Israels exhibited his paintings successfully at the Art Circle of Batavia in 1922. The present lot was painted in that same year.

According to Anna Wagner, the present lot possibly depicts dancers at the court of Mangkoenegara in Solo.