Impressionist and Modern Art including Latin American and Russian Art

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Lot 119
  • 119

Alexander Archipenko 1887-1964

Estimate
30,000 - 40,000 USD
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Description

  • Alexander Archipenko
  • The Past

  • inscribed Archipenko and Tu souviens-tu des collines jaunes avec des ronds, rouges/ Ce sont  des fleurs tardives d'automne, je m'en souvien de ta bouche (lower edge)

  • copper, gold patina on a marble base
  • height: 13 1/2 in.
  • 34.3 cm.
  • Executed circa 1926.

Provenance

Sidney Ring (acquired directly from the artist), 1935
Thence by descent in the family

Condition

In very good condition. The copper substrate has been re-plated with first silver and then soft gold to restore the original finish. The surface has also been lightly waxed. There are no visible dents.
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

This work will be included in the forthcoming catalogue raisonné being prepared by Frances Archipenko Gray.

As the first Display Director at Saks Fifth Avenue from 1924 to 1956, Sidney Ring had a keen eye for the arts and a passion for the Art Deco style. Searching for a way to incorporate these interests in his work, he commissioned the Russian artist Alexander Archipenko to design a backdrop for Saks' display windows in 1929. For the project, the artist integrated Art Deco principles by creating a serial geometric pattern of wood bands. Ring also used The Past in a window display and Archipenko later gifted it to him. The present work not only echoes Ring's fascination with display objects and Art Deco, but exemplifies the sleek, seductive craftsmanship of Archipenko and the aesthetics both men shared.