Leonid Pasternak

Private Collection, Germany (acquired directly from the artist in 1913)
Thence by descent

Rimgaila Salys, Leonid Pasternak: The Russian Years, 1875-1921: A Critical Study and Catalogue, New York, 1999, vol. 1, p. 46

Pasternak executed multiple variations of this image of Konstantin Korovin's name day party; two depict Korovin, Chaliapin, A.M. Vasnetsov, Arkhipov, Tuchkov and Prince Shcherbatov grouped around a table, while a third (the present lot) depicts Pasternak in place of Vasnetsov.

Pastel, pencil and charcoal on paper laid down on board. There are 3 pin holes across the top of the painting. There is a 3 inch scratch in the upper left corner and a small scratch in the lower left corner. The edges of the paper have some very minor pigment loss and small tears. There is a small scratch near the date in the lower left corner. There is a very minor amount of foxing around the edges and the paper has faded in line with age. There are also some small stains in the corners. Held under glass in a wood frame. Unexamined out of frame.
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.

Pasternak executed multiple variations of this image of Konstantin Korovin's name day party; two depict Korovin, Chaliapin, A.M. Vasnetsov, Arkhipov, Tuchkov and Prince Shcherbatov grouped around a table, while a third (the present lot) depicts Pasternak in place of Vasnetsov.  Pasternak later recalled the party, writing "Tuchkov was absolutely besotted with Chaliapin, mainly because of the way the latter could sing gypsy romances. Chaliapin was aware of this and on these occasions would play tricks on Tuchkov. At the point where Tuchkov had become quite ecstatic in his passionate accompaniment, Chaliapin would quite deliberately sing a note slightly off-key. Tuchkov would...become fierce with anger" (R. Salys, Leonid Pasternak: The Russian Years, 1875-1921, p. 105).