Sale: 368 / Modern Art, June 12. 2010 in Munich Lot 1

 
Ernst Barlach - Russische Bettlerin I


1
Ernst Barlach
Russische Bettlerin I, 1907.
Bronze
Estimate:
€ 15,000 / $ 16,200
Sold:
€ 48,800 / $ 52,704

(incl. surcharge)

Bronze with brown patina
Laur 117/1 (of 3). Schult 69. Inscribed "E. Barlach" lower left. Twice with the foundry mark "H. Noack Berlin Friedenau" in bottom of rear. One of 3 unnumbered copies, cast 1933-34. 14,2 x 29,7 x 14,5 cm (5,5 x 11,6 x 5,7 in)

PROVENANCE: Private collection southern Germany.

In his very own manner, Barlach works up the impressions gained on a Journey to Russia in1906. With his particular canon of forms, which was then still strongly influenced by Art Nouveau, the “Russian Beggar“ is a prime example of this artistic period. The social concern, which was reduced at as later point in favor of a simplification of forms, is still quite obvious in this work and is integrated into a canon that is convincing both in esthetic as well as in expressive terms. The outstretched hand is the only dynamic feature of this figure that is resting in itself, the garment’s heavy and yet soft tucks symbolize humility in an undefined fate. [KD].




1
Ernst Barlach
Russische Bettlerin I, 1907.
Bronze
Estimate:
€ 15,000 / $ 16,200
Sold:
€ 48,800 / $ 52,704

(incl. surcharge)