Bruno Schulz

Acquired by the original owner in Poland before 1939
Then by descent to the present owner

In good condition. Sheet slightly toned. Minor creases in the corners. Tipped to the backing at upper corners, verso.
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.

Like the previous lot, this drawing by Polish artist Bruno Schulz deals with the themes of temptation and desire. It is an illustration for Sanatorium Under the Sign of the Hourglass, one of Schulz's two novels. A surrealistic work, the novel is a collection of short stories which describe life in the Jewish sections of Schulz's hometown of Drohobycz, in present day Ukraine. In the story Spring, the narrator devotes much of his time to describing his fascination with Bianca, a beautiful but strangely reserved young woman. "I was standing today at the junction of Fountain and Scarab streets when a shining, open landau as broad and shallow as a conch drove by. In that white, silk-lined shell I saw Bianca, half-lying, in a tulle dress. Her gentle profile was shaded by the brim of her hat tied under her chin with ribbons. She was almost drowned in swathes of white satin." Overcome by excitement, the narrator produces a pistol from his breast pocket and fires a shot into the air.

Please see the previous lot for more information on  Bruno Schulz