Description:Created in c. 1903-4, this is a unique black chalk drawing on paper, inscribed ‘11’ on the verso. This work will be included in the forthcoming supplement volume of the catalogue raisonné of Klimt drawings, prepared by Dr. Marian Bisanz-Prakken.
Also accompanying the work is a photo-certificate of authenticity signed and dated by Dr. Bisanz-Prakken including the following inscription: “I confirm my statement | of 26.4.2004 | that I intend to publish this drawing | in the supplement volume (V) | of the catalogue raisonné | of the Drawings by Gustav Klimt | which will appear as a publication | of the Albertina, Vienna. | Vienna, 21.6.07 | Dr. Marian Bisanz-Prakken.”
This flattering, expressive silhouette of Hermine Gallia features her seated in a lightly outline armchair, sketched effortlessly and beautifully in a way that only Klimt is able. Her visage is raised slightly, allowing light to cast a small shadow along the bridge of her nose and the crest of her lips, forming her unique and feminine features. Married to one of the leading art patrons in Hamburg at the time, Hermine was one of Klimt’s iconic muses as he painted a flattering portrait of her, for which this drawing was created. As one of the most striking and iconic artists at the turn of the century, Gustav Klimt produced several works of art which he could not complete without a series of preliminary sketches and figural studies of many of his subjects. This unique drawing gives us insight to his fascinating, artistic vision in creating a stunning portrait of friend, Hermine Gallia.
PROVENANCE:
Galerie Hassfurther, Vienna – October 22, 1998
Private Collection
Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
It is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that will accompany the final sale of the work) :
1. Strobl, Alice. Gustav Klimt Die Zeichnvngen vol. I, 1878-1903. Similar figural studies of Hermine Gallia on pg. 294-5 as cat. nos. 1022-3.
2. A letter from Dr. Marian Bisanz-Prakken confirming the authenticity of this work as well as her acknowledgement of its addition in the supplement volume of the catalogue raisonné of Gustav Klimt.
3. A Photo-Certificate of Authenticity accompanies this piece signed and dated by Dr. Marian Bisanz-Prakken of the Albertina Museum, Vienna.
About the Framing:
This work is set in a beautiful, Baroque-inspired gold moulding that gracefully complements this marvelous work. Its intricately carved detailing serves to accent Klimt’s swift hand and balanced composition, echoing the movement and fluidity of this figural study. Completed with white, linen-wrapped mats and a matching, gold inner fillet, this work is set behind a Plexiglass cover; all materials used in framing are archival to ensure lasting quality.
