Alexander Evgenievich Yakovlev

Acquired directly from the artist in 1937 
Private Collection, Boston
Thence by descent

The paint surface is dirty and thin in some areas, with some areas of loss near the right edge, to the top of the work and in places elsewhere, as visible in the catalogue photos. There are some nicks of paint loss to the surface that expose the underlying canvas and some minor scratches to the surface. UV light reveals no retouching. The work would benefit from attention by a restorer. Held in a wooden 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. 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."

Yakovlev felt at home on Capri, travelling there often in the late 1920s and throughout the 1930s. His pictures from this period utilise loose brushstrokes and a bright palette, evoking a sense of cheerful fluidity and relaxed freedom.

On the Balcony was executed during a trip to Capri in 1936. At the time, Yakovlev was teaching at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. He gifted the work to a friend in 1937 and it has since remained in the same private collection.