Affandi

Raka Sumichan
Private Collection, Indonesia

This work is in good overall condition as viewed. There is evidence of light wear to the canvas along the edges due to abrasions with the frame. There are very small, brown accretions visible at the raw canvas in the backdrop. Upon very close inspection, some very slight cracking to pigment is visible at areas of very thick impasto, but this is stable and consistent with the age of the work. The paint layers are healthy overall. There are two very minor, pinhole sized holes at canvas only noticeable when viewing the work from the back. Any other inconsistency is part of the artist's working method. 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."

representation of his homeland fueled his artworks that gave life to the narratives he portrayed. His depictions of Indonesia are expressed through the ordinary lives of his people and promoted Indonesia’s rich culture. He travelled around Indonesia where he painted memories of his journeys, most to them being landscapes.

In Palm Trees, the overall visual is almost like a painted illustration of his subconscious. The brisk and energetic strokes depict the leaves of the trees and landscape. The effective use of the curved strokes creates a sense of motion almost to indicate the presence of the wind. Palm trees are commonly seen in Indonesia and the sun is a recurring motif throughout his oeuvre. Framed to the right, it emits these rays of energy, metaphorically shown by the palpitating thick yellow and white lines that radiate throughout the canvas. Some have argued that his pieces were a form of expressionism proven by the irregularity and distortion of the lines which evoked a lively scene. With the bright array of colors, these strokes vibrate around the canvas where the viewers capture the energy that activates Palm Trees.

Affandi’s vibrant use of color, ambitious painting technique and aesthetic style has drawn comparisons to Vincent Van Gogh. Some claimed that his first trip to Japan in 1970 help nurtured his artistic process as his pieces developed to reflect an abstract expressionistic style.   His homage to Indonesia’s landscape in Palm Trees,  authentically mirrors his energetic character and electrified love for his country.