Jean Lambert-Rucki

Galerie Vallois, Paris
Acquired from the above by the present owner, 1996

Jacques de Vos, Marc-André Ruan and Jean-Pierre Tortil, Jean Lambert-Rucki 1888-1967, Paris, 1988, p. 15 (for a related work)

Overall in very good original condition. The surfaces throughout with minor irregularities inherent in the natural qualities of the wood and subtle discolorations which heighten the sculptural depth, as seen in the catalogue illustration. The surfaces throughout have been lightly and sensitively waxed. There is some very slight movement between the sculpture and the base. An unusual sculpture showing reference to both the tribal totems and abstract painting that were heavily influencing the sculptor during in the period. This lot is being sold with a copy of a letter of authenticity from the children of the artist.
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.

Lambert-Rucki arrived in Paris in 1911 as Cubism and Futurism were transforming artistic convictions.  He settled in Montparnasse and became close friends with Modigliani, who provided the young artist the wood for his first sculptures.  Later, like many artists at the time, including Modigliani, Lambert-Rucki was heavily influenced by African Tribal Art.  In the 1920s, he was also introduced to the cubist aesthetic through Fernand Leger.  Lambert-Rucki’s unique vision combining the mysterious attraction of a tribal totem and the dynamism of cubism are encapsulated in the present subject.

The present lot is being sold with a copy of a letter of authenticity from Mara and Leano Rucki, the children of the artist.