Wassily Kandinsky (1866-1944) Watercolor Study

Watercolor with black ink on wove paper, formerly part of an artist's sketchbook,
abstract with geometric and biomorphic forms, signed* with the artist's monogram (Wassily Kandinsky, 1866-1944). Dated '39. 6 x 4 5/16 inches. Minor repaired tear at extreme lower left corner, otherwise very good condition. Sold unframed, as inspected.

Provenance: Acquired together with other works of art from Andre Ostier (1906-1994, Paris) by the former owner, a prominent Carmel, California, collector, now deceased. He and Andre Ostier were friends from the late 1940's until Ostier's death in 1994. Ostier, a well-known French photographer who was famously acquainted with many artists and European celebrities of the day, possibly acquired the present drawing directly from the artist, or from a close friend of the artist. The present lot was bequeathed to the current owner.

*Preston Hall Gallery has not had this lot examined by an expert to determine its authenticity. The lot description and the lot title are for identification purposes only and do not constitute an attribution. Preston Hall Gallery is not an authority on works by this artist. The style, subject matter, and signature seem correct in our opinion although our assessment may not be accurate. Some works sold by Preston Hall Gallery have subsequently been authenticated and resold by major auction houses worldwide; however, we cannot guarantee the same outcome for the present lot. There are risks associated with buying unauthenticated works of art. The value and marketability of this work could be positively or negatively affected by an expert's examination and opinion. Such opinions can vary, and some opinions may not be favorable. An expert or panel of experts could judge the work to be "in the style" of (but not by) the named artist, an "afterwork" (a copy), or a counterfeit (a forgery). For additional information regarding works of art, please see "Authentication and Provenance of Fine Art," following Section 27 in our Terms & Conditions of Sale (as found on Live Auctioneers) before placing your bid. No additional information regarding this lot's provenance is available nor will any be provided after the sale. Unless stated otherwise in the lot description, the provenance for this lot may not have been verified and could contain factual inaccuracies or omissions that could impact the value of the artwork. This lot is not guaranteed nor is its provenance. It may not be returned. [Copyright 2020 Preston Hall Gallery].

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