阿凡迪

私人收藏，瑞士
香港蘇富比，2013年10月6日，拍品編號474

The work is in good condition overall. The canvas is clear and sound. Indication of light wear and handling is evident on the edges, this may be due to the mounting of the frame, however paint layers are well preserved. There are evidence of scattered signs of light craquelure, mainly on the darker and thicker impastos. Under ultraviolet light inspection, no restoration was found. 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."

The painting Seascape by Affandi firmly establishes the artist as a prominent figure in the Indonesian canon. The work is a celebration of the artist’s deep affinity that he has with the natural environment. His emotions are conveyed through the expressive paint strokes, with the colors further intensifying the relationship between the artwork and the audience.

It may be said that Affandi’s paintings are inspired by his memories in Indonesia, and the connection that he has with the world around him. Seascape is predominantly a pairing of colors and vibrant textures, which enables the artist to experiment with his expressionist-inspired aesthetics, and styles on the canvas. His style of painting is unique in terms of its application, for he directly squeezes paint from the tube onto the canvas, only occasionally using a paintbrush or his hands to touch up certain areas.

Seascape may be seen as a visual mediation on the forces of nature that influences everyday existence. A defining presence in Affandi’s oeuvre, and a motif he often returns too, the natural world featured predominantly throughout his body of works. The present work further emphasizes this relationship that the artist had with his surroundings. The artist has painted a portrait of himself on the lower left frame, a deliberate action to establish his role in the natural landscape.

This passion that he has towards the external world is evident within his oeuvre. The paintings may be seen as snapshots from the artist’s life. They depict his personal growth, relationships, appreciation for nature, and private thoughts, that are all gifted with a new life within the landscape of the artworks.