Lot 308
  • 308

ISAAC ISRAELS | Javanese Dancer

Estimate
500,000 - 700,000 HKD
bidding is closed

Description

  • Isaac Israels
  • Javanese Dancer
  • Signed 
  • Oil on canvas
  • 80 by 60cm., 31½ by 23½in.
  • Executed circa 1922

Provenance

Acquired directly from the artist
Thence by descent to the present owner
Sotheby's London, 13 December 2018, Lot 2 

Condition

This work is in good overall condition as viewed. There are four pin-head sized spots of surface dirt in the upper left quadrant of the composition.There is some minor paint shrinkage at darker pigments, but this is only visible upon very close inspection. 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. 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

The present work is set within a pendopo (or pendapa), a Javanese pavillion structure built on columns and open on all sides, used as a ritual space for ceremonies. A dancer, with arrows on her back and elaborate headgear, takes centre stage while gamelan musicians are seated behind her. Israels' energetic brushwork brings to life the hypnotic motion of the dancer, while onlookers sit in the verdant tropical surroundings beyond.

The setting appears to be the same as in a work identified with the Kraton at Surakarta (or Solo). Here Israels was able to paint in Java thanks to the introduction of Raden Mas Jodjana. He also painted portraits of the ruler Mangkoenegara VII (one of which is now in the collection of the Frans Halsmuseum, Haarlem).