Affandi

This work is in good overall condition as viewed. There is some craquelure on some of the impastos, including some paint shrinkage at black pigments, but these are only visible upon close inspection and consistent with the age of the work. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals no sign of restoration as viewed. 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

From its dynamic style to its visceral subject matter, the present work is a vortex of energy. The image of wild boars scurrying vigorously is concomitant to the forceful strokes of paint, providing the work with a tangible quality that transports its viewer into its tenebrous realm.

Upon viewing this arresting image, it is conceivable that Affandi was seated on the floor when painting it, as the scene appears to have been portrayed from a truncated perspective. A determined artist who strived to conjure the most authentic depiction of reality in Indonesia, Affandi physically stoops down to the level of the pigs in order to accurately observe and render them.

A vigorous pig darts in across the foreground of the work, featured in its side profile. Its legs are in motion as it dramatically arches its back and lifts its head, tugging against its leash, which is securely tied around its neck. A human hand appears at the right edge of the composition, clutching on to the burgundy tether. Bridled by the control of a human being, the boar is manic, engulfed in a ravenous frenzy of emotion.

It is evident that Affandi executed this vehement boar to a remarkable level of detail, suggesting that he would have spent a lot of time noting its minutia. Sharp canine teeth, painted in a bright yellow pigment, protrude from its mouth. Painted in fiery red, coarse bristles of hair on its back stand erect, indicating that the animal is agitated.

Another voracious pig, on the upper left side of the composition, dashes in the opposite direction. Affandi infuses the work with a sense of depth by including numerous scampering pigs that recede into the distant backdrop. Black, swirling formations, perhaps clouds, loom above them, providing the work with a dark, foreboding ambience.

Affandi creates the effect of chaos and hurried movement with his viscous, bold strokes of paint, which he would squeeze from their tubes and apply directly to the surface of the canvas. Subsequently, he would smear the pigments across the picture with bare hands, surrendering to pure spontaneity and eliminating all inhibitions. This trademark technique permeates this masterpiece with a distinct rhythm and vitality that truly lures the viewer into the picture plane.