Ismail Gulgee

Acquired directly from the artist in Pakistan in 1967
Thence by descent

Craquelure is present in areas of thicker paint, particularly notable in the lighter pigment in the upper half of the painting. Small losses are also visible upon very close scrutiny. This work is in good overall condition for its age, as viewed.
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This large-scale work of a dancing woman is an excellent example of Ismail Gulgee's early painterly style, highlighting the artist's sensitive treatment of colour. The rendition of the jewellery and the human form itself, as well as the manner in which he captures her graceful movements are all testaments to his talent. 

"Each part of the canvas is painted with loving care, each brushstroke is aware of itself, every impression is infused with light, which makes the picture surface vibrate with a transcendental glow. Gulgee, while painting, wants to carry the viewer along by appealing to his emotional and sensual faculties." (I. Hassan, Painting in Pakistan, Lahore, 1991, pp. 119-120)

Academically and professionally, Gulgee trained as an engineer from Columbia and Harvard University respectively, but his real passion lay in the arts. He had an innate gift of being able to capture a moment in time, and execute it with élan. He held his first solo exhibition in Stockholm in 1950. Today, he is considered to be one of Pakistan’s most important modern artists. His works are a part of numerous distinguished private and state collections globally.