Eesti kunsti oksjonid
Eduard Wiiralt “Istuv daam”
Kevadoksjon 2025
Mezzotint on paper. 1941.
Signature: WIIRALT Tallinn 22 VI 1941 / Mezzotinto 1941 / Eduard Wiiralt
| Measurements | plm 49,4 x 31,8 cm |
|---|---|
| Starting price | 4 300 € |
| Number of bids | 2 |
| Hammer price | 4 500 € |
Eduard Wiiralt (1898-1954) who returned to Estonia from Paris before World War II, arrived here at a politically turbulent time but despite the difficult atmosphere, the artist continued to actively engage in his work. Wiiralt sought out models who had already inspired him during his previous Estonian period, including Miss Talli, portrayed in this print, of whom he also created a dry-point engraving expressing a completely different character, “The Girl with a Striped Scarf” (both 1941).
“Seated Lady” is one of the artist’s most delicate works from this period. In addition to the proud and self-conscious stance, the focus of attention in this portrait is on the hands, which are crafted down to the last detail. However, in addition to the hands, we recommend directing your gaze to the extremely detailed folds of the dress, which Wiiralt has drawn with special softness and fluidity, making the most of the possibilities of the mezzotint technique.
The print is also part of the collection of the graphic arts collection of the Art Museum of Estonia.
Text: Katre Palm