瓦基迪

Gifted from the artist to the late Mr. Ali Sadikin
Private Collection, Indonesia

There is evidence of light wear along the edges of the work. This work could benefit from a light cleaning, as there is dirt and small accretions at the surface of the work. There are a few pinholes visible. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals no sign of restoration. 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.
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.

Artists often paint what they admire, as well as what they are familiar with, and the paintings of Wakidi are no exception. An individual who greatly respected Mother Nature and was an avid landscape painter throughout his career, the painting Landscape perfectly exemplifies his favored motifs and aesthetics that defined his oeuvre. Populated by the archipelago’s rich vegetation and bodies of water, the paintings can be seen as a collective narrative of the country’s agriculture. In the forties Wakidi studied at the Inlandsche Nederlandsche School (INS, Netherlands Indies School) in Kayutanam, West Sumatra.

Throughout Indonesia it was understood amongst the population about the importance that their country held for them, notably in terms of sustenance and survival. Wakidi follows in this mindset, for the paintings can be seen as homage to Bukittinggi in West Sumatra where the artist spent most of his life. While he did emulate the colonial style known as Mooi Indie (Beautiful Indies) throughout his paintings, Wakidi strived to paint the world as he saw it and this is apparent in the paintings.

Wakidi’s renditions of the archipelago mirrored his own perspective, and as he believed the landscape was beautiful, therefore the works themselves depicted the environment as such. The current piece is a meditative study of a lake surrounded by lush trees and a blue sky. It is a scene as experienced by the artist. Therefore through his eyes the audience is able to share in the pastoral quality of the memory too.