Sold for: $10,000

PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Oakville

LITERATURE
Ann Davis, Somewhere Waiting: The Life and Art of Christiane Pflug, 1991, page 181 and similar canvas reproduced page 188

An Art Gallery of Hamilton storage label is on the verso.

It is with great enthusiasm we are able to offer this exceedingly rare drawing by the talented and enigmatic artist Christiane Pflug. This preparatory sketch is likely one of several studies for a larger oil on canvas, Bird Cage and Tunisian Objects (1961) painted the same year. The drawing is detailed, precise and impeccable in its execution. The ceramic vases are objects that Christiane would have acquired on her travels to Tunisia with her husband Michael, between the years of 1956- 1958. The cage and pigeons were a loan from close friend and Dutch immigrant, Anton van Dalen who lived close by and had a fascination with birds and small animals - a passion and love which Christiane shared.

In 1960, after returning to Canada, Christiane set up an apartment in Toronto at Yonge and Summerhill with her family and began to devote more time to her artistic practice. Drawing became a focus, for the medium allowed her the necessary flexibility required while raising two young children. It was at this time that Av Isaacs of the Isaacs Gallery took an interest in her work after meeting Michael. The gallerist offered Christiane a show and this invigorated her to produce more work.

This drawing is important to understanding her progression as an artist and the themes she would develop. Like the larger painting of the same subject, “it incorporated objects and methods which are characteristic of her earlier work and also forecast later developments. These paintings, like Janus, look both forwards and backward. Interestingly, both involve caged still life objects in front of a window.” Symbolic parallels between her domestic life, her chosen subjects and her ultimate tragic end are often drawn upon by scholars and critics.

All prices are in Canadian Dollars

Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.