This lot consists of a watercolor and graphite illustration on paper, done in the sensual, Art Nouveau style of Egon Schiele (Austrian, 1890-1918). "Egon Schiele 1915" is inscribed in graphite at bottom right. Image depicts two nude female figures frozen in intimate embrace. Bold, expressive lines give this piece a raw intensity. Unframed; measures approximately 11.25" x 8" overall.

A small graphite inscription can be seen on the reverse side of piece which reads, "Schielle/12".

This lot is further accompanied by two documents bearing the official seal of a Belgian art gallery. One document, a Gallery Certificate, provides helpful information on the provenance, technique, and other details specific to this lot. The second document simply provides printed reference images of the lot itself.

Egon Schiele (Austrian, 1890-1918) was a leader in the Expressionist art movement and a protege of Gustav Klimt. Schiele was a major figurative painter of the early 20th century. His work is noted for its intensity and its raw sexuality, as well as the many self-portraits the artist produced. All of Schiele's work is infused with a deeply personal element.

As stated in the "gallery comments" on attached Gallery Certificate:

"Schiele is considered to be a major figurative painter of the early 20th century. First rooted in art nouveau, he developed his art to combine ornamental structuring with a fractured line and an expressive use of color. Schiele's fractured tones and harsh contours transport the motif into the aesthetic idiom of early expressionism. The many nudes, female as well as male, are devoid of any then-acceptable concept of beauty and are like psychograms emphasizing tensions and even tragedy."

PROVENANCE:
Private Collection

DIMENSIONS:
Unframed approx. 11.25" x 8".

Finger Lakes Estate and Auction Company has been commissioned to liquidate several private collections of fine art. The pieces in this auction came from established collectors both in the United States and Europe.

Lots that do not carry established documented provenance nor any past auction record are described in the catalog as "in the style of". Authentication has not been established nor is it implied. Definition of "in the style of" is as follows:

In the style of [Artist Name]: The work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but there may be some question as to actual authorship.

Please use photos as part of the description. The absence of condition report does not guarantee excellent condition. Please contact us for an in-hand evaluation or for additional photos.

Overall good condition. Some age-related toning has occurred. No tears, stains, chips, or other serious aesthetic damage. Colors and lines remain bold and rich. Please examine photos for further detail.