J. F. Willumsen (b. Copenhagen 1863, d. Cannes 1958)
Study for “En Bjergbestigerske” (A mountain climber), 1902. Unsigned. Watercolour on paper. 48×42 cm.
Exhibited: Udstillingen, Stockholm, 1919. Exhibited: Helsinki, May 1928. Provenance: I.C.T. Levinsen, Copenhagen. Provenance: Bruun Rasmussen Auctioneers, Copenhagen, September 2013. Provenance: Private collection.
In the summer of 1902, J.F. Willumsen went hiking with the woman who would become his next wife, Edith Willumsen. It was a happy time, and also a highly productive time. During these years, Willumsen applied a method of working whereby he made countless preliminary studies whilst circling in on the final work. This watercolour is part of such a process, which would eventually result in the two versions of what is probably his most famous work, “En bjergbestigerske”, from 1904 and 1912.
Most of the motif is already in place here in 1902: Edith's fine profile, the broad-brimmed hat, the decorative play of light and shadow on the cheek, chin and hair are reminiscent of a Danish version of Art Nouveau. As in the final work, Edith is dressed in a practical sweater, but her mouth is not yet open. In the background is the suggestion of stylised conifers (text by art historian Troels Branth Pedersen).
Please note: The item is subject to the Anti-Money Laundering Act. In the event of a hammer price of DKK 50,000 or more, including buyer’s premium, the buyer must submit a copy of a valid photo ID and proof of address in order to collect the item.
Modern paintings, sculptures and prints, 13 June 2023