Piet van der Hem

This work is in very good condition. The sheet is slightly undulated. There are some tiny pinholes in the extreme upper two corners. There is some paper discolouration along the extreme left edge due to framing.
"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 1910 Piet van der Hem travelled to Rome where he stayed for a short period of time. Although the artist was not interested in Rome's well known renaissance art and museums, he loved the typical Italian cafés and theatres. Consequently, he executed several drawings in which he expresses this fascination. Aspects of the surroundings important to him include the costumes and the activities of the people. The whole mood of the works suggest the pleasure, relaxation and fun of people in early twentieth century Rome. In these works, Van der Hem tried to capture the "couleur locale", and it is in Rome where the figures in his works began to take on a slightly more prominent place in the foreground.