Lot 31
  • 31

Francis Newton Souza

Estimate
150,000 - 200,000 GBP
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Description

  • Francis Newton Souza
  • Untitled
  • Signed and dated 'Souza 63' upper left, inscribed 'GIRL - 1963/ 59 by 40½' on reverse

  • Oil on canvas
  • 172.5 by 104 cm. (68 by 41 in.)

Condition

Oil and mixed media on unprimed canvas, painting appears to be in very good overall condition, as viewed.
"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."

Catalogue Note

Like the nudes of Manet, Picasso and Rouault, Souza's nudes go beyond the boundaries of convention. His female figures appear naked rather than nude, their nakedness a mark of material reality. Her confident gaze unnerves the viewer, both acknowledging her blatant sexuality and vulnerability.  Souza's nudes are often portrayed alongside a leering fully clothed male that could be said to convey Souza's own sexual anxieties and his relationship with the church. 'As a Roman Catholic youth, born in Goa, I was familiar with the priests bellowing sermons from pulpits against 'sex' and 'immodesty' particularly addressed to women, making them stricken with guilt.  The Catholic men stood cocky in their suits and ties agreeing with the priests, lusting for naked women inwardly. Hypocrites!' (Dalmia 2001, p.92.)

Souza recalls as a child watching his mother through a peep-hole 'I used to watch her bathe herself through a hole I had bored in the door.  I was afraid if she thrust something in, I might get a bleeding eye-ball.  I drew her on the walls and prudes thought I was rude.  I can't see why, because as far as I can recollect, I had even painted murals on the walls of her womb.' (ibid. p.91.)