Description:
Hans Hofmann (German/American, 1880-1966)
Head of a Student
Monogram signature "...Hofmann" l.r., inscribed "13/xxxlll" l.r., titled on a label from the Neuberger Museum, State University of New York, College at Purchase, affixed to the frame backing.
Ink on translucent vellum, 14 5/8 x 12 5/8 in. (37.1 x 32.1 cm),framed.
Condition: Mat burn, toning, pinholes to corners of the sheet, nicks and small tears to edges, handling creases, adhesive residue to u.r. corner.
Provenance: Mrs. Joan Avnet, through to the current owner.
N.B. The label affixed to the frame backing indicates that the work was on loan to the Neuberger Museum, loan number 12.37.76.
Hans Hofmann, an influential teacher and artist involved with the New York School of Abstract Expressionism, probably created this drawing early in his career, sometime between 1926 and 1929, while running his eponymous art school in Munich. Drawn on translucent paper, the work may have been used to produce lichtdruck (collotype) prints-a photo-mechanical technique popular in Germany in the first half of the twentieth century. Art collector, dealer, and philanthropist Joan Avnet, along with her husband, Lester Avnet, amassed 900 Old Master and Modern drawings, 180 of which they donated to The Museum of Modern Art in 1978.
Estimate $1,000-1,500
Framed dimensions: 21 x 18 1/2 in.
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Keywords
Joan Avnet, Lester Avnet, Munich, GermanyRobin S.R. Starr
Vice President
Director of American & European Works of Art
508-970-3206
Elizabeth Haff
Specialist, American & European Works of Art
Old Masters & 19th Century
508-970-3206
Kathleen M. Leland
Specialist, American & European Works of Art
Modern & Contemporary Art
508-970-3206
James Leighton
Specialist, American & European Works of Art
Fine Photographs
508-970-3206
American & European Works of Art
The American & European Works of Art department brings years of experience, connoisseurship, and knowledge of art history to bear in every fine art appraisal, evaluation, and auction.