Lot 14
  • 14

Christo

Estimate
100,000 - 150,000 EUR
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Description

  • Christo
  • Wrapped portrait of Jane Mansfield
  • signed and dated 63 on the reverse
  • oil on canvas in plastic wrap and twine mounted on masonite
  • 79 x 68 cm; 31 1/8 x 26 3/4 in.
  • frame: 88 x 73 cm; 34  5/8  x 28  3/4 in.
  • Executed in 1963.

Provenance

Knoedler Gallery, Zurich
Galerie Ad Libidum, Antwerp
Galerie Onnasch, Berlin 
Sale: Sotheby's London, Post War and Contemporary Art, 21 March 1991, lot 80
Collection Alain & Candice Fraiberger 

Condition

The colours are fairly accurate in the catalogue illustration, although the overall tonality is warmer and lighter in the original work. The printed illustration does not convey the mat aspect of the wrap. The work is in good original 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."

Catalogue Note

Christo moved to Paris in 1958 and joined the Nouveaux réalistes group in 1963, the year he painted Wrapped Portrait of Jane Mansfield. An historical painting that affirms his singular and inspired artistic approach, Wrapped Portrait of Jane Mansfield is one of his first works. In line with the Dada and Surrealism traditions, it perfectly illustrates the virtuosity with which the artist plays with artistic codes and transcends the ordinary.

By wrapping a painting of Jane Mansfield, an icon of glamour in the 1950s and 1960s, Christo plays on the idea of aesthetic detachment, giving enigmatic meaning to this portrait whose eroticism is increased because it is veiled. The original work is covered by an aura of mystery and takes on new meanings through Christo’s intervention. There is detachment, but not concealment, and the function is simply tipped into a double perspective.