Théo van Rysselberghe

Acquired directly from the artist by the family of the present owner (commissioned by the model and her husband)

R. Feltkamp, Théo Van Rysselberghe 1862-1926, Brussels 2003, p. 408, no. 1914-009, illustrated
P. Colin, La peinture belge depuis 1830, Brussels 1930, p. 323

This work is in very good condition.
"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 his later work Théo van Rijsselberghe leaves strict pointillism behind, using freer brushstrokes and stronger colours which allow him to execute very sensitive and realistic portraits.

Margareta von Kühlmann-Stumm (1884-1917), first wife of Richard von Kühlmann (1873-1948) is depicted at the time when her husband was Councillor of the German Embassy in London. The couple was acquainted with e.g. Fritz Wichert, Rainer Maria Rilke, and Annette Kolb. Richard von Kühlmann later became State Secretary of the Foreign Office of the German Empire and played an important role in the negotiations preparing the Treaty of Brest-Litowsk. 

The artist has made another version of this work (see R. Feltkamp, Théo Van Rysselberghe 1862-1926, Brussels 2003, p.405, no. 1913-015, illustrated), currently in the Museum von der Heydt in Wuppertal, Germany, the other version was exhibited in:  
Brussels, Galerie Giroux, Theo van Rysselberghe, March 1922, no. 23 Paris, Galerie Druet, November 1923, no 1 Paris, Galerie La main gauche, Theo van Rysselberghe, January - February 1958, no. 5