5 June 2013 Russian Art Auctions
5 June 2013
* 422. FALK, ROBERT (1886-1958)
Boats in Marseille, signed.
Gouache on paper, laid on card, 32 by 44.5 cm (paper size).
15,000–20,000 GBP
Executed in the 1930s.
Provenance: Important private collection, Europe.
Literature: Robert Rafailovich Falk. 1886–1958. Raboty na bumage, Moscow, Galeyev Galereya, 2012, p. 132, No. 120, illustrated; p. 224, listed.
Robert Falk, one of the best Russian colourists of the first half of the 20th century, is represented by his remarkable gouache Boats in Marseille. The mood of the work is itself astonishingly musical. The water’s range of cold hues with touches of warm bright pigment harmonises with the golden colours of the sky. The row of houses standing close together on the seafront is lit by the last glimmerings of the setting sun. There is the sensation that, as if from nowhere, a light breeze has sprung up, gently rocking the tall-masted boat lying at her alongside berth. When you peer into these suites painted by the artist, you can almost hear their enchanting melody. Falk was one of those gifted painters who could not only endow his works of rare beauty with a harmony like tuneful phrases but could actually combine music with painting.
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.