Affandi

The painting is in good condition, as is the canvas, which is clear and taut. Close observation reveals a tiny, pin-sized hole on the upper right edge as well as a lose weave on the upper left edge. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals no indication of retouching. The paint layers and impastos appear well-preserved.
"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."

"Looking at his works, one immediately feels the unity and harmony which pervade them: the same hand, the same broad brush-stroke, the same spirit, the same vigour have composed the paintings exhibited here, which cover a period of twenty-six years. Their strength comes from the broad gestural brush-stroke, from a kind of duel against the canvas, duel which must consist of rapid movements, now carried out with the brush, now merely with the hand, now – and more often – with the tube itself, in order that the inspiration may not stop even for a short moment, making therefore impossible any correction whatsoever. For him, only the direct and prompt inspiration is bound the grasp and transmit the deep and throbbing emotion...The vortex grows unceasingly and out of it come gigantic images, sometimes macerated portraits, very often cruel self-portraits; other times human figures and inanimate things extracted from reality but tortured by the expressionist will to dramatize. Something dominates always overwhelmingly: in the portraits the face takes possession of the whole canvas...."

FLÁVIO DE AQUINO, AFFANDI: EXPOSIÇÃO RETROSPECTIVA 1940-1966, EXHIBITION CATALOGUE, MUSEU DE ARTE MODERNA DE SÃO PAOLO, 3-22 MAY 1966