Wassily Kandinsky

Woodcut printed in colours, 1903, signed on the original mount (reduced and detached), inscribed 'HOLZSCHNITT Handdruk', a very rare impression (Roethel records eight impressions of this subject in various colour combinations), on Japan paper, framed

Trimmed to the image, in good condition apart from a short horizontal and diagonal repaired tear at centre of left sheet edge (just outside the border), a few traces of previous pale brown adhesive showing through slightly recto in the upper borderline. (There is a vertical printer's crease at centre). The verso with a mounting strip adhered along top sheet edge, backed with Japan paper, 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."

"The print's romantic mood can be traced to Kandinsky's personal life: in 1903 his student Gabriele Münter had joined him in the Bavarian town of Kallmünz, and he was falling deeply in love with her. Rather than typical oil-based colour, Kandinsky inked his blocks with watercolour, resulting in a translucency well suited to his figure's exotic costume."

(Lisa Michaux, Minneapolis Institute of Arts)