Alfred Kubin

Maximilian Morgenstern, Vienna (acquired directly from the artist)
Thence by descent to the present owner

Executed on cream wove paper, not laid down. The upper and left edges are deckled. The sheet is slightly time stained and there are a few very minor spots of foxing away from the image and a small spot of staining to the centre of the extreme right edge. Otherwise this work is in overall very good condition.
"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."

Sotheby’s is delighted to present these three works on paper by Alfred Kubin acquired directly from the artist by Maximilian Morgenstern. Morgenstern was a Jewish textile merchant and Viennese collector but also a friend, admirer and patron to Kubin. Brought together in an organic and learned manner, the Morgenstern Collection is probably the most significant group of Kubin’s works assembled during the artist’s lifetime. These three illustrations, offered for the first time, have remained with the heir of Morgenstern up until the present day. So close was the relationship between artist and patron that as well as inscribing several of his works to Morgenstern, Kubin also depicted him with a halo in the guise of St Martin of Tours. St. Martin was predominantly known for the legend of St Martin’s cloak, an account of his using his military sword to cut his cloak in two, in order to give half to a beggar clad only in rags. Maximillian Morgenstern was Kubin’s protector in real life so it was a tale which resonated with their relationship. In 1909 Kubin had published his famous novel Die andere Seite (The other side), establishing not only his literary career but also his reputation as an illustrator. He would go on to work intensively in this field over the following two decades and the present works are fascinating early examples of this aspect of his output.