THÉO VAN RYSSELBERGHE | Buste de femme inclinée vers l’arrière (Jeune femme pensive)

Arthur Tommelein, Bruxelles
Private Collection, Brussels (by descent from the above; sale: Galerie Athena, Brussels, 30th June 2016, lot 570)
Purchased at the above sale by the present owner

Ronald Feltkamp, Théo van Rysselberghe, Catalogue raisonné 1862-1926, Paris, 2003, no. 1881-023, illustrated p. 251 (as dating from 1881)

The canvas is not lined. There is a milky varnish preventing the UV light from fully penetrating, however examination under UV light reveals an area of retouching towards the left part of the upper edge and to the centre of the left edge. The varnish has discoloured in places, in particular to the lower left corner, and there is craquelure visible. The work is in overall good condition.
"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."

Arthur Tommelein, the first owner of the present work, edited one of the first dictionaries to be published on Belgian artists and over the years assembled a beautiful collection of Belgian works of art, including Buste de femme inclinée vers l’arrière (Jeune femme pensive).

The authenticity of this work has been confirmed by Olivier Bertrand and it will be included in his forthcoming Catalogue raisonné.