Exceptional black ink drawing over colored chalks, figure of a woman (possibly a study for Munch's "Madonna"), attributed* to Edvard Munch (1863-1944). Signed with the artist's initials. The reverse contains a red chalk drawing, a sketch of the same subject in a different pose, and is signed, lower middle. 8 7/8 x 6 1/2 inches. Very good condition. Unframed for inspection and shipping.

Provenance: Property from a prominent West Coast family collection, the former owner now deceased. See our July 25, 2016 sale (Lot 143) for another Munch offering from this collection. The present lot represents part of the remaining Munch-ascribed drawings from this collection and may originally have been acquired at Habsburg, Feldman Inc., Geneva.

* This lot is being offered as attributed to the named artist. The attribution is based in part on our careful examination but does not represent the opinion of a recognized expert or panel of experts. Preston Hall Gallery and the consignor assume no risk, liability, or responsibility for the authenticity or authorship of any lot described by this term or by other similar qualifying terms such as "manner of," etc. These lots are not guaranteed and may not be returned. Please see "Authentication and Provenance of Attributed Lots," following Section 27 in our Terms & Conditions of Sale before placing your bid. Unless stated otherwise, no further information regarding this lot's provenance is available. Such information could include the identity of the seller or previous owners, which may be excluded to accommodate a seller's or family's request for confidentiality or because the identity of certain prior owners is unknown. Preston Hall Gallery does not obtain written affidavits from consignors regarding provenance. Demonstrable provenance can be an important factor in determining authenticity. Bidders are advised not to rely solely on a lot's provenance in making their bidding decisions, as such provenance may contain inaccuracies.[Copyright 2017 Preston Hall Gallery]