Alexander Evgenievich Yakovlev

A gift from André Citroën to Gaston Chausson, grandfather of the present owner

Paris, Galerie Charpentier, Alexandre Iacovleff: Exposition de dessins et peintures de l’Expédition Citroën Centre-Asie, 16 May-4 June 1933

Exhibition catalogue, Alexandre Iacovleff: Exposition de dessins et peintures de l'Expédition Citroën Centre-Asie, Paris, Galerie Charpentier, 16 May-4 June 1933, no.76

The canvas has been lined and there is a layer of light surface dirt. Otherwise in overall good condition. UV light reveals a small area of retouching on the right side and two other small areas of retouching in the top left quadrant. Held in a simple gold painted 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."

After the success of the African expedition known as the Croisière Noire, a second voyage across Asia was instigated by the French industrialist André Citroën. Named the Croisière Jaune, it took place in 1931-32 and Yakovlev was once again asked to document the journey which took the explorers from Beirut to Peking.

At Misgar, in the north of Pakistan, Yakovlev sketched a polo game in the picturesque valley. The present work, executed in situ in August 1931, evokes the players’ energy with its rapid brushstrokes. Most probably it constitutes a sketch for the monumental composition Yakovlev produced in 1933, destined to be displayed at Croisière Jaune exhibitions in Washington D.C. and Paris, and which for many years belonged to the collection of the National Geographic Society.

The current lot was offered by André Citroën, the expedition’s sponsor, to the industrialist Gaston Chausson, one of his main suppliers, as can be seen from the handwritten dedication on the reverse.

To be included in the forthcoming Alexander Yakovlev Catalogue raisonné being prepared by Caroline de La Baume