Isidor Kaufmann 1853-1921

Josef Winterstein, Vienna
Harry Froot, New York (acquired from the above, 1927)
Estate of Edward Perry
Donated to the present owner, 2000

There are two vertical, repaired cracks in panel at the lower egde. The paint surface is stable and in good condition. Under UV light: the old varnish has been partially removed and the pigments are active under traces of old varnish. Very fine inpainting on the two cracks at bottom. Accompanied by original bill of lading from 1927.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Kaufmann was intrigued by the revered and learned older men in the Eastern European villages he visited each summer during the early 1900s. The artist's striking portraits of these rabbinical sages are enhanced through Kaufmann's trademark use of ornamental background detail and a sumptuous palette.

Portrait of a Rabbi reflects the respect and admiration Kaufmann felt for these religious figures and for Jewish life. The sitter sits before a Torah curtain, gazing at the viewer, enveloped in a pious atmosphere. Kaufmann meticulously paints the details of the Rabbi's soft wrinkled skin, graying beard and worn coat, their humble nature contrasted by the rich fur trim of his streimel and the luster of the intricate tallit draped over his shoulders. Tobias Natter notes that the white haired Hasidic Jew with streimel and kaftan is one of the artist's favourite models. (Isidor Kaufmann, p. 234).