Konstantin Alexeevich Korovin

The collection of the sitter
Thence by descent

For information on Korovin's friendship with the Rubins, please see K. Korovin, T. Esina (Ed.), That was a long time ago... there... in Russia, Moscow: Russkii put', 2010, vol I p.9, vol II Recollections, stories, letters p.829.

There are several patches visible on the the reverse of the original canvas. There is a layer of light surface dirt and discoloured varnish and fine lines of craquelure in places. Under UV light there is retouching to an approx. 7cm long repaired tear to the right of the sitter's shoulder, an area of retouching to the top left and to an 8cm long tear also to the top left and a few minor spots eleswhere. Held in a simple gold painted wood frame and 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."

The offered lot depicts Maria Rubin, (née Deineka). Her husband, German Rubin was not only an enthusiast of Konstantin Korovin's work but also a close friend of the artist and the two enjoyed a long friendship as testified by a body of private correspondence held in the Russian State Archives of Literature and Art in Moscow.