Konstantin Alexeevich Korovin

Acquired by the parents of the present owner in 1930s

Thence by descent

Orginal canvas. There are pin holes along the edge of the left side of the canvas. The paint surface is dirty and there is a layer of discoloured varnish. There are small areas of craquelure of varying size in places, predominantly where paint has been applied most thickly. There is some ingrained dirt in the thick impasto. UV light reveals no apparent signs of retouching however an uneven layer of fluourescing varnish prevents a more conclusive analysis. Held in a black painted wooden frame. 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."

In Evening Duet, Korovin explores the contrasting and transformative effects of natural and artificial light. The softness of the colours in the moonlit background is juxtaposed with the vivid orange highlights from the lamp at the right of the composition. It is often said of Korovin that he was the first to introduce the Impressionism to the stage in his designs, but the reverse is also true. Although an artist known for painting what has been described as, 'the usual unpremeditated events of the everyday', Korovin introduces a strong sense of theatricality into his domestic scenes. The elevated perspective in the offered lot creates space between the viewer and the scene portrayed, giving the impression that we are undetected spectators of this private performance.