Charles Demuth

Kraushaar Galleries, New York
Zabriskie Gallery, New York
Kennedy Galleries, New York

St. Louis, Missouri, The St. Louis Art Museum, n.d.
Providence, Rhode Island, David Winton Bell Gallery, List Art Center, Brown University, Over Here:  Modernism, The First Exile, 1914-1919, April 14-May 29, 1989
Roslyn Harbor, New York, Nassau County Museum of Art, Town & Country:  In Pursuit of Life's Pleasures, May 12-August 11, 1996

 

(work was not examined out of frame as edges show clearly and are intact) in fairly good condition; sheet has faded uniformly over time (edges are slightly darker); a few minor nicks along the edges--a small diagonal tear at upper left corner (under 1/2 in.); sheet is hinged to backing with pieces of tape at the corners; some minor soiling to surface; a few scattered light stains and a coupdl of speck of foxing at lower left
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.

Demuth painted two series of beach scenes in Provincetown, Massachusetts, in 1915 and 1934.  The present work was very likely part of the latter group.  In comparison to the earlier pictures, the works from the 1930s are more spontaneous and the forms more generalized.  By way of a cultural shift in tastes, the later works show figures whose skin bears a touch of sun, an acknowledgment of the fashion for suntans at the time.