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Untitled (Couple, Woman Seated) - Original Ink and Gouache
This is an original mixed media work by Rudolf Bauer utilizing
ink and gouache on wove paper. In the work, an upper class couple poses for their portrait, with the woman regally seated.
The piece is signed by the artist in ink lower left.
This work comes from the late 1920's, a period that saw Bauer producing
works that combine caricature and an art deco style. Works from this time were done with an elegance that was not present
in his earlier caricature work of the 1910-1915 period. Bauer subsequently moved into more abstract work in the 1930's
and was instrumentally involved with Hilla Rebay in the founding of the Guggenheim. At one time Solomon Guggenheim owned over
300 works by Bauer.
The image area is 16 inches H x 10-1/4 inches W (41 cm x 26 cm). Sheet size is 16-1/2
inches H x 10-1/2 inches W (42 cm x 27 cm). Bauer estate stamp was observed verso lower left corner prior to framing.
The piece is simply, yet
elegantly framed in antique-looking black moulding, with built-in gold faux filet and contrasting white matting. It is
covered in UV-resistant acrylic. Frame size is 24-3/4 inches H x 18-3/4 inches W x (63 cm x 48 cm). No evidence of prior
framing.
This piece was purchased
from the Bauer estate through an intermediary dealer. Note that we had consolidation and minor gouache touch up performed by
a professional conservator/restorer prior to framing. Total gouache replaced was about the size of a U.S. 5-cent coin. (Most
dealers will not volunteer this information.)
In addition, the
piece shows signs of some earlier touch up while still with the estate, which is evident on close inspection
with raking light or a microscope. This is not uncommon for gouache works that are nearly 90 years old.
