Alexander Evgenievich Yakovlev

Acquired directly from the sister of the artist

The sheet is worn along the edges. There are creases and areas of loss along the edges. There are old repairs throughout. The work would benefit from restoration and consolidation by a professional paper restorer and we would advise prospective buyers to view. Held in a simple wooden frame behind glass. Unexamined out of frame.
"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."

Whilst Yakovlev was based in the Far East, an exhibition of his works in Shanghai in 1918 caused a sensation. A number of Chinese critics commented that he was the first European artist to have truly captured the diversity of their race with such precision. The following year, Yakovlev left the Far East for Paris, equipped with his box of sanguine pencils, watercolours and drawings. He was swiftly introduced into Parisian artistic circles by his friend Joseph Kessel, and became a member of the Russian émigré community. A 1920 exhibition of his Chinese, Mongolian and Japanese works at the Galerie Barbazanges in Paris and subsequent shows in London brought about the admiration of other great émigré Russian painters such as Nikolai Roerich, who wrote,

"The large exhibition halls were filled with stunning pictures of China; there was something so refined and compelling about them; at the same time, they were all so unique and celebrated everyday life"

 

The refined line which Roerich noted is clearly visible in this drawing of a young woman tracing a dance step. She is wearing a traditional silk costume, buttoned to one side. Whether working in charcoal, sanguine or oil, Alexander Yakovlev excelled in the depiction of folded fabrics. In the offered lot, the viewer feels they might almost be able to touch the soft flowing lines of her silk clothes.

 

 

To be included in the forthcoming Alexander Yakovlev Catalogue raisonné currently being prepared by Caroline Haardt de la Baume.