Strauss & co - Review 2009

17 Carla signed and dated 1944, inscribed with the title, the artist’s name and address on the stretcher oil on canvas, 55 by 49,5 cm SOLD R5 570 000, OCTOBER 2009 Irma Stern S OUTH A FRICAN 1894-1966 Stern’s Carla was undoubtedly the highlight of Strauss & Co.’s inaugural Cape Town sale. The sitter is portrayed as a strong but perhaps reserved individual who is absorbed in contemplation. The compelling power of this portrait derives from its apparent simplicity. All attention is concentrated on the face by directing the hand towards the eyes and contrasting the subtle olive skin tones with the rich burgundy jersey and background. Its extraordinary historical significance resides in its having been selected for the XXV Venice Biennale in 1950, illustrated in the catalogue and promptly acquired by the South African National Gallery. However, when Stern discovered that it was not hanging in a prominent enough position, she cancelled the sale and instructed John Paris, the then Director, to remove it from the wall. It was sold on the same day.