Theo Meier

Acquired directly from the artist in 1954 thence by descent to the Present Owner
Private Collection, Germany

The work is in good condition overall. There is evidence of light wear and handling around the edges of the work. Examination under ultraviolet light shows minor touch ups on the top right corner, on the nude's neck and shoulder blade (three small specks). However, this is not visible with the naked eye. Framed.
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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."

Theo Meier was widely adulated as an artist-adventurer whose travels sculpted the cornerstone of his artistic inspiration. Influenced by Paul Gauguin, Meier brought tropical landscapes and people to life with the use of notably warm pigments. His insatiable wanderlust prompted extensive travels amongst various countries in the region and beyond before eventually settling in Bali, an exotic locale which captured his heart and fulfilled his vision of a paradise.

The present lot entitled Portrait of the Artist's Wife Madèh Pergi with Mount Gunung Agung exemplifies the artist’s celebrated aesthetics and styles. Gazing into the distance, the heavy lidded subject bears a contemplative expression, commanding respect whilst conjuring up a sense of tranquility. Her great poise and serenity is brightened by the afternoon sun which illuminates her elegant physique, complementing the tranquility of the backdrop. The composition is reminiscent of 17^th Century Dutch female portraiture, with far reaching padi fields and Mount Gunung Agung bringing forth a sense of depth. The artist’s intuitive understanding of colors further allows him to bequeath the portrait with the mood of warmth and vitality.

Meier strived to capture the beauty of the archipelago and its people within his paintings. The current portrait is a special piece from his oeuvre, for the artist has succinctly paired the Dutch School of Painting with his own personal aesthetics. In this painting, Meier has adopted a multifaceted approach, portraying the subject and the natural elements with the pigments familiar to a tropical environment while introducing an overarching Western influence as its main artistic direction. The work is a testimony towards the beauty in which Meier saw in his wife (Madèh Pergi), and one that he wished to share with viewers.