Albert Anker

Faint blob of paint on right arm. Minuscule irregularity in paper on book pages. Overall 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."

Die eine Hand zur Schläfe gehoben, die andere auf dem Buchrand ruhend, präsentiert Albert Anker unseren lesenden Mann, der zutiefst in seine Lektüre versunken ist. Die Kargheit des haselnussbraunen Hintergrundes und die schlichte Platte des Holztisches im Vordergrund unterstreichen die Konzentration des Dargestellten. Die flächigen Zonen stellen einen subtilen Kontrast zu den präzis wiedergegebenen Gegenständen her. Die filigrane Brille oder der nahezu weisse Bart, durchzogen von feinen silbernen Härchen, sowie das dezent schillernden Messing des Brillenetuis überzeugen durch ihre eindrückliche Stofflichkeit und ihren hohen Realismus. Die stille Unaufdringlichkeit der Momentaufnahme betont die wunderbare Intimität des Augenblicks.