Isidor Kaufmann

Galerie Josefstadt, Vienna
Acquired by the present owner from the above, 1977

In good condition. Signature quite faint. Some frame abrasion to the side edges. UV: A small area of inpainting in the figure's face at left, in his cheek and beard. A few other minor spots in his beard, one to the right side of his left eye, another in the fur of his cap. A small area of inpainting on his left sleeve and jacket at the bottom edge, center. A few other minor spots in the jacket and some addition inpainting to address frame abrasion in areas.
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.

Unlike other painters of his generation,  Isidor Kaufmann  revealed the inner spiritual essence and religious life of the Eastern European Jew in his works. In 1894, the artist embarked on the first of many trips to the shtetls of Hungary, Moravia, Slovakia, Galicia, Ukraine and Russian Poland to observe and record the culture and traditions of the people there.

With great skill, Kaufmann depicts this rabbi as a pensive and solemn figure, recording each diminutive detail, from the fine hairs of the sitter's fur trimmed streimel, to the intensity of his gaze.  The rabbi faces forward, in the pose most often used in Kaufmann's portraiture, with the viewer's perspective placed slightly below his steady gaze, allowing for a careful study of the sitter's nature.  Set against a dark and spare background,  his face comprises nearly the entire composition, further enhancing the characterisation's power.