ANTONIO BERNI (Argentinian 1905-1981) A PAINTING, "Juanito y sus Amigos en Villa Piolín," 1960, tempera on pressed pulpboard, signed and dated L/R, verso a paper label, accompanied by a black and white photograph certificate of authenticity, signed. 29 1/2" x 23 1/2" Note: Antonio Berni was known best for cultural observation and social commentary in his artworks. Here he paints a fictional character Juanito Laguna, a young boy living in the slums of Argentina. Exploring evidence of poverty and social injustice, the present work captures a moment in time. The historic Villa Piolín neighborhood's name changed in the 1960s; the present painting preserving cultural and social dynamics of the historic area.The present work is accompanied by a black and white photograph, the verso stamped, "Certificado de Autenticidad, Galeria del Mar/Centro Integral de Arte, Mar del Plata, Argentina," and signed in blue ink pen by the artist, "Antonio Berni." A secondary ephemera provided is printed in grey ink, retaining the Sotheby's letterhead on cream laid paper. A letter signed by Sotheby's consultant Ann Horton documents a proposed auction estimate, proposed on February 20, 1994, of $300,000-$325,000 with personal invitation to consign in the next Latin American sale.  Provenance: Christie's New York, Rockefeller Center, Latin American Art, November 24, 2014, lot 25, sold $125,000; Pablo Goebel Fine Arts, Mexico D.F., Mexico; Galleria Del Mar/ Centro Integral de Arte, Mar de Plata, Argentina.

Small occasional losses at artist's pin holes, appearing mostly near outermost edges near frame, some occasional minor inpainting, a scratch upper left corner, but overall in good to very good condition, wear commensurate with age. Simpson Galleries strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by Simpson Galleries regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Simpson Galleries. All lots offered are sold "AS IS." NO REFUNDS will be issued based on condition.