Arturo Sanchez

The painting is in good condition overall, as well as the collage elements There are indications of light wear and handling around the edges, but paint layers are well-preserved. Under ultraviolet inspection, there is no evidence of restoration. Framed.
"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."

When Words Have Lost Their Meaning by Arturo Sanchez tantalizes the eye with the delicious anticipation of a kiss that never materializes. Voyeurs are left hanging in midair, like the gentleman captivated by his deceptively swooning lover. She may be recumbent in a vintage pose, but she is neither docile nor submissive. A flame-shaped mirror escapes from her half-open mouth and licks the cheek of her inamorato. She seduces and beguiles, ensnares and hypnotizes despite her submissive position.

The collaged mirror has always been an important element in Sanchez’s oeuvre; in this piece, he adds yet another layer to his visual signature as the shapes of the mirrors themselves have become symbols.  One might say that the container’s form is as worthy of scrutiny as the container’s secrets: the flame as the tongue of the temptress; the flowers, delicately engraved so that their petals burgeon out of the canvas and unfurl toward the viewer.  Not just any flower, but a rose—the bloom of immortal love. Inside each blossom are images of desire, the many incarnations of Venus and Adonis lustily gazing from another plane. Sanchez tells his story on multiple levels: through the manifest actions of his subjects (as depicted on canvas) and their latent desires concealed in mirrors. When Words Have Lost Their Meaning teases and stops just short of satisfying. We must be content with breaths forever mingling and two lovers’ lips never meeting.