1950 - 2023
Canadian
Liberty 1789
encaustic on canvas
on verso signed, titled and dated 1996
30 1/8 x 30 1/8 in, 76.5 x 76.5 cm
Estimate: $12,000 - $16,000 CAD
Sold for: $32,175
Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave
PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Montreal
Liberty 1789 is from the series About 1789, produced by encaustic master Tony Scherman. The series focused on the French Revolution, a moment in history Scherman feels personal ties to, having lived in France during his early childhood. However, this image is far different from the large, patriotic paintings or posed portraits of historic figures that came to symbolize the Revolution. The artist departs from this conventional model of historical painting – narratives that provide a straightforward representation – and instead offers unique, luscious snapshots of animals, still lifes and figures associated with the overarching narrative. In this stunning work, Scherman magnifies his subject, asking his audience to confront the figure at close range and form their own interpretation of the subject and this historical event. The medium of encaustic plays a large role in his work, as the hot wax and colour pigment create a luscious surface that can mimic human skin, whilst showing obvious traces of the artist’s hand through the thick drips and splashes. Liberty 1789 is related to other works in the series with similar titles that focused on actress Gillian Anderson.
Estimate: $12,000 - $16,000 CAD
All prices are in Canadian Dollars
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