*** Löwit

Mult Es Jövö (published 1911-1944), illustrated p. 182 (a copy of the page accompanies the lot).

Oil on canvas. In overall good condition. Fine web of scattered cracquelure, scattered spots of slight discoloration, slight surface dirt, scattered pin points of minor paint loss and flaking, two horiztonal scuffs in upper right corner. Ultraviolet light unavailable at time of cataloguing.
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.

Kalman Bettelheim (1811-1890) was a prominent member of a noted Jewish family in Pressburg (now Bratislava, capital of Slovakia, but formerly in Hungary). Pressburg was home to the largest and most important Jewish community in Hungary.  Both Kalman and his father Moses were highly regarded and served as presidents of the Jewish community of Pressburg in the days of the famed Hatam Sofer, the rabbi and preeminent halakhic authority of Orthodox Judaism. The Yeshiva headed by the Hatam Sofer produced all the leading Hungarian rabbis and was responsible for the prominence of Hungarian  Orthodoxy. Kalman Bettleheim had a close relationship with the Hatan Sofer and was counted among his inner circle. Kalman’s descendants included prestigious  members of the banking and financial community.