Ludwig Blum

Sale: Sotheby's, Tel Aviv, October 4, 1993, lot 3
Acquired at the above by the present owner

Overall in very good condition. Original canvas. The colors are fresh and vibrant. There is slight craquelure and abrasions on the upper left quarter of the canvas and the canvas is slightly wavy there as well. The surface is slightly dirty. No retouching is apparent when viewed under ultra violet light.
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.

Born in 1891 in Moravia, Blum emigrated to Palestine in 1923 and settled in Jerusalem. Immediately attracted by the warm colors, unique light and the oriental atmosphere of the holy city and its people, Blum quickly became Jerusalem's most prominent painter.  The city's various views – the alleys of the old city, the walls of Jerusalem, the Mount of Olives and the mountains of Moab – were recurrent themes in his works. During the 1920's, Blum cemented his reputation as an accomplished painter, exhibiting both in Eretz Israel and abroad, including his native county, Czechosolvakia. In 1946, Blum became a front-line painter, depicting the struggle for independence with his vivid brush. After the establishment of the State of Israel, Blum continued to paint landscapes, particularly views of Jerusalem, focusing on its bustling streets and markets, In 1967, Blum received the honorary award of "Yakir Yerushalayim" for his artistic tributes to the city.

Three further works by Ludwig Blum are offered in the sale. See lots 9, 10 and 55.