48 Isaac Israels (1865-1934)
The present work depicts Sophie de Vries and belongs to a particularly intimate group of portraits in Isaac Israels’ oeuvre. Sophie de Vries was his companion and muse, being a never-ending source of inspiration to Israels. Their relationship, formalised after her separation from her husband, infused Israels’ portraits of her with a rare intimacy and tenderness. In comparison to his other artworks, these portraits stand out not only for their painterly brilliance but also for their emotional depth, offering a glimpse into the personal life of the artist. In this nude portrait, Israels adopts a more atmospheric approach. Rather than defining every detail with precision, he builds her likeness through loose, expressive brushstrokes and a nuanced interplay of light and shadow. In his typical style of ‘sketching with paint’, Israels manages to capture the character of his muse. Her dignified pose, with her back straight, hands folded, and composed expression, radiates elegance and gracefulness. This chic appearance is accentuated by her golden earrings, long necklace, and fashionable Japanese robe that partially covers her lap. Painted with swift brushstrokes in a muted palette, the portrait balances between intimacy and stateliness.
Nude portrait of Sophie de Vries signed ‘Isaac Israels’ (lower left) oil on canvas, 100x65 cm
€40,000 - €60,000
Provenance: -Collection Jan Michiel Pieter Glerum, Amsterdam; His auction, Mak van Waay, Amsterdam, 26 September 1933, lot 134, where acquired by Heerdt Brumel. -Collection Zwart, the Netherlands.
RKD image no. 250037, mentioned with different measurements (100x85 cm).
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