MacDougall Auctions 12-18 June 2008
12 June 2008
* 86. ANISFELD, BORIS 1879-1973
Grey Day signed and dated 1945.
Tempera on board, 76.5 by 66 cm.
30,000-40,000
Provenance: Private collection, USA.
Exhibited: Boris Anisfeld. Retrospective Exhibition, The Art Institute of Chicago, Art Institue of Chicago, USA, 1958.
This canvas, reminiscent of German romanticism artistic movement, was created in 1945. It is a fine example of decorative-lyrical expressionism that is typical of the artist’s late oeuvre. Two women wearing long dresses are depicted against the idyllically tranquil background. The delicate colour scheme with subtle accents create the impression of undisturbed languid contemplation. The stylised deliberate composition is evocative of the artist’s long-life fascination with the world of theatre. It seems two women are sitting in the theatre box observing the world of ideal fantasies. The red armchair with a high recline is a recurrent theme in numerous Anisfeld works dedicated to the world of childhood, dreams and fairytales.
Notes on symbols:
* Indicates 5% Import Duty Charge applies.
Ω Indicates 20% Import Duty Charge applies.
§ Indicates Artist's Resale Right applies.
† Indicates Standard VAT scheme applies, and the rate of 20% VAT will be charged on both hammer price and premium.