Please note our offices will be closed from Friday March 29 through Monday April 1 for Easter. Local pick-ups will start on Tuesday April 2.
      
      
      

LOT 011

AANFM RCA
1923 - 1999
Canadian

Les temps assassinés #1
oil on canvas
on verso signed, titled on the gallery labels and Le temps assaciné [sic], dated 1974 and inscribed "#1"
60 x 90 in, 152.4 x 228.6 cm

Estimate: $35,000 - $45,000 CAD

Sold for: $25,000

Preview at: PacArt, Toronto

PROVENANCE
Mira Godard Gallery, Toronto
Corporate Collection, Toronto

LITERATURE
Constance Naubert-Riser, Jean McEwen: Colour in Depth, Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, 1987, page 48


An exploration of the power of colour is at the core of Jean McEwen’s abstract paintings. In this mysterious work, a dark central rectangle dominates. As Constance Naubert-Riser wrote, “The artist comprehends space solely through colour,” and here, this dark rectangle - a hovering, magisterial presence - is pushed forward by the bright splashes of peridot green in the background. There is even a further spatial layer - wisps and flickers of luminous white float through the surface of the dark rectangle and push even further forward in the picture plane. The rectangle’s slightly ragged, organic edges give it the illusion of a subtle quivering, adding to the sensation of motion caused by the energy of the radiant colour. This superb large-scale work envelops the viewer with its strong presence.

Starting in 1957, McEwen began to give his paintings poetic titles, and Les temps assassinés #1 loosely and provocatively suggests the concept of time being killed. Even though the work is abstract, titles such as this give subtle nuances and depths of meaning to our perception of McEwen’s works.


Estimate: $35,000 - $45,000 CAD

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.