Manoucher Yektai

Acquired directly from the artist by the present owner's mother in 1963

Condition: This work is in very good condition. There are few minor handling marks in the corners and very light craquelure in few small spots, only visible upon close inspection. There is a tiny dot of paint loss on top left, not visible unless examined closely. There is no restoration apparent when viewed under the UV light. Colour: The catalogue illustration is very accurate, but the overall tonality of the white tends more towards an egg white hue in the original work.
"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 offer a rare and early portrait by American/ Iranian artist Manoucher Yektai. The portrait in question is of Ms. Homa Vakil Mansour who was the wife of the Ambassador of Iran to the United Nations from 1959 to 1971 and Ambassador to the Vatican from 1971 to 1977. It is during the couple's time in the USA in the late 1950s that they befriended the artist who in 1962 convinced Mrs. Vakil to pose for him in his studio. This portrait is one of the earliest by the artist to appear at auction.