Akseli Gallen-Kallela

Henri de Vallombreuse (probably a gift from the artist. Vallombreuse, 1856-1919, was a French ceramicist and a close friend of Gallen-Kallela whom he had met while both were studying at the Académie Julian in Paris in the 1880s)
Sale: Bukowskis, Stockholm, 28 October 1985, lot 12
Private Collection, Stockholm (purchased at the above sale)
Private Collection, England
Acquired by the present owners in 2003

Executed on brown paper, which has probably darkened somewhat over time. The sheet has been laid down onto the backing board at all four corners and intermittently along the edges. In the upper part of the extreme left edge there are two very minor repaired tears, both less than 1cm, and one minor repaired tear at the top of the right edge. Apart from some minor very small black spots in the lower right quadrant, and a tiny drop mark in the lower right corner, overall this work is in good condition, with strong, fresh colours. Held in a simple gilt frame with the artist's name inscribed, probably the original. The colours are somewhat subtler in reality than in the catalogue illustration.
"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."

Executed circa 1889. Although the sitters for the card players have not been identified, Aivi Gallen-Kallela-Sirén has suggested that one could be Henri de Vallombreuse, the first owner of the work.

Presented in the original frame, signed by the artist.