Isaac Israels

Collection Hartog
Private collection, Belgium

Original canvas. There is a minor retouch just right of the head of the figure. This work would benefit from cleaning, otherwise in fine condition.
"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."

Throughout his career, Isaac Israels was enchanted by the beauty of Indonesian dancers. The movements of the dance, as shown here by the position of the hands of the figure, emphasized the natural elegance of the Javanese. The captured gesture possesses a slow meditative quality, which is at the essence of the Javanese dance, wherein movements are slow and deliberate, but always elegant. The dancers upright posture is aristocratic but never rigid. Already in 1898 Israels wrote in a letter: 'De Javaantjes zijn prachtig, je moet ze bepaald eens gauw komen zien (...) Ik zit de heele dag mijn hoofd en handen te verdraaien a la Javanaise en ik denk alleen aan tandakken en alang alang'. 

The present lot always remained in private hands. It is registered at the RKD in The Hague under inv.no. 1101-73, titled 'Javanese'. The depicted dancer was also painted by the artist seated (see lot 207).