Hovsep Pushman

Grand Central Art Galleries, New York

James A. Stillman, New York (acquired from the above)

Parke-Bernet Galleries, Inc., New York, 13 May 1944, lot 667 (consigned by the Estate of the above)

Private Collection (acquired from the above)

Ira Spanierman, Inc., New York

Acquired from the above in 1982 by the present owner

Highly detailed and expertly crafted, Hovsep Pushman’s The Sacred Horse emerges as a prime example of the artist’s eclectic still lifes. Known for his renderings of ancient-art objects and idols, The Sacred Horse stands as a preeminent example of Pushman’s detailed approach to figurine painting. The proud stance of the intricately colored horse casts an imposing shadow over the delicately painted flower trimming of the curtain, and emphasizes the attention to detail that permeates throughout the artist's oeuvre.  

Pushman's technical precision finds itself most magnified in the finely detailed folds and slightly frayed edges of the curtain, underscoring the expert oil work that the artist was revered for. Recalling the mysticism and history of the past, Pushman’s The Sacred Horse emphasizes the artist’s profound attraction to objects with spiritual significance in their capacity to build an altogether mystifying tone.