Cundo Bermúdez (1914-2008)

Acquired from the artist

Washington, D.C., The Organization of American States, Art of the Americas in Washington Private Collections. Tribute to the Arts of the Americas, March 15-April 7, 1974, no. 9

Dorothy Chaplik, Latin American Art: An Introduction to Works of the 20th Century, London, 1989, p. 55, discussed; also illustrated in color
Vicente Báez, et. al., Cundo Bermúdez, Madrid, 2003, p. 178, illustrated in color

This painting has probably never been removed from its original stretcher. The canvas is well stretched. The paint layer seems to be cleaned and varnished. There are some small scuffs to the varnish around the edges, but the painting is in very good state. Under ultraviolet light, it can be seen that although the figures are well preserved, there are a few retouches in the blue background in the upper center. Some of the original colors read quite darkly under ultraviolet light, but the amount of retouching seems to be minimal. (This condition report has been provided courtesy of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc.)
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.

Sotheby’s is honored to present a selection of Cuban works of art from the collection Ambassador and Mrs. William Bowdler. The Bowdlers’ love of Cuban art started when William Bowdler was appointed in 1957 to the post of Political Officer at the United States Embassy in Havana. During their time in Cuba, the Bowdlers immersed themselves in the local art scene, developing lasting friendships with the leading collectors. They began to collect the works of artists such as Cundo Bermúdez, René Portocarrero, Raúl Milian and Amelia Peláez. Although they left Havana in 1961, their passion for Cuban twentieth century art continued. They added to their holdings over the years through direct contact and enduring friendships with the artists. Other works from the Bowdler’s collection are present in this sale as lots 190 through 197.

William Bowdler continued his diplomatic career, becoming the United States Ambassador to El Salvador (1968), Guatemala (1971) and South Africa (1975). Back in Washington in the late 1970s, Ambassador Bowdler was appointed to several government posts under President Jimmy Carter, including  Assistant Secretary of State for Latin American Affairs.

The present work, Después de la función (After the Performance), depicts one of Cundo’s favorite subject: musicians, mimes and pierrots at work and at play. This large canvas with mosaic like colors shows Cundo’s characteristic stylized figures in several poses dressed as harlequins as they relax after a performance. The close relationship between the Bowdlers and Cundo Bermúdez can be seen by the works they collected over a period of over forty years.