Vladimir Yakovlev

Gouache on paper. The paper is slightly dirty and there are minor flakes of paint loss and staining throughout. There are minor tears around the around outer edges of the composition and there are some slight creases. The paper is cut unevenly. Sold unframed.
"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."

An extraordinary figure in the annals of contemporary Russian art, Vladimir Yakovlev lost most of his eyesight as a teenager, having been afflicted with an eye disease at the age of sixteen; by the mid-1970s, only a small portion of his vision remained. His degenerating sight led to severe depression, resulting in numerous stays in mental hospitals.

Yakovlev's fear of blindness is reflected in much of his work, including haunting portraits, many of whose subjects are depicted with damaged, crossed eyes. The portraits, mostly busts, are frontal, even confrontational, composed of bright colors set down in thick, wide marks that activate the pictorial surface The artist also created studies of animals as well as powerfully evocative landscapes.