Lot 383
  • 383

S. Sudjojono

Estimate
450,000 - 650,000 HKD
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Description

  • S. Sudjojono
  • Bunga Anggrek (Orchids)
  • Signed, stamped with a monogram of the artist, titled and dated 1969
  • Oil on canvas
  • 98 by 75 cm.; 38 1/2 by 29 1/2 in.

Literature

Liem Tjoe Ing, Paintings from the Collection of Adam Malik, P.T. Intermasa, Jakarta, Indonesia, 1979, p. 16

Condition

The work is in good condition overall, as is the painting which is clear and taut. There is light wear and handling around the edges of the work due to basic handling and framing processes. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals gentle touch-ups scattered on the flowers, along the right margin and a small repair of the canvas near the signature. Framed.
"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."

Catalogue Note

Recognized as the Father of Indonesian Modern Visual Art, S. Sudjojono devoted his life to capturing the daily lives of the people during a critical period in the Dutch colonial occupation. Marked by an era of constant social and political instability in Indonesia, the works of Sudjojono are imbued with strong nationalistic sentiments yet without compromising a supremely poetic touch, which his paintings are acclaimed for. Using the paintbrush as a vehicle to express his revolutionary ideals, Sudjojono actively participated in political groups during the 40s and 50s and founded the Persagi movement (The Indonesian Painters Association).

The present work Bunga Anggrek is in many ways a revelation of the artist's ideas and visions. The orchid is a double- entendre, as a means to arrest the viewer's attention, while exploring the political and sociological ideals entrenched deeply in Sudjojono's artistic creations. Orchids can grow in almost all types of environment, their ability to adapt to harsh environments mirrors the soldiers' sore experience in the war; thus portraying the soldiers in an arguably heroic light.  A single orchid does not have a predominant role in the ecosystem, however a group of orchids are able to shine and express their strength and beauty to the world. The power of assemblage is thus expressed through using orchids as a visual metaphor; the artist exploits the imagery to explore the significance of alliance in nationalism.  Providing a deliberately minimal background, Sudjojono layers his composition with bright vivid colours. The thick impastos and fluid brushwork instill a sense of boldness and vivacity in the atmosphere, bringing to mind the qualities of a resurgent era.