Willem De Kooning

Private Collection, United States
Sale: Sotheby's, New York, Contemporary Art, 2 May 1985, Lot 88
Acquired directly from the above by the present owner

Colour: The colours in the catalogue illustration are fairly accurate, although the overall tonality is lighter in the original. Condition: This work is in very good original condition. There are a number of horizontal tears to the vertical paper edges and a few small losses to the paper in places, as well as isolated handling marks, all of which are likely to be original to the work’s execution. No restoration is apparent when examined under ultraviolet 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. 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."

“Compared with his earlier canvases, the paintings of the 1960s show gains in rhythm, luminosity, and surface vibration through the quiver of his line and the chromatics of his reds, pinks, greens, and white. As in the past, de Kooning keeps gambling with the possible destruction of each work-in-progress by holding it open to associations that spring up in the course of its creation. Some of the paintings […] are among the most lyrical creations of the century”

HAROLD ROSENBERG
Ed., Willem de Kooning, New York 1974, p. 35