The present work will be included in the forthcoming Catalogue raisonné des dessins et peintures d'Auguste Rodin (1840-1917) being prepared by Christina Buley-Uribe under the archive number 261002.

Provenance:

(Likely) Newman Galleries, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Collection of Jules and Etta Mastbaum.

By descent to the descendants of Jules and Etta Mastbaum.

Exhibited:

London, The Pastel Society, Piccadilly, W., The Galleries of the

Royal Institute of Painters, Third Annual Exhibition, June 17-July 20, 1901, cat. nos. 208-212 (for the entire group of drawings, exhibited under the title Working Drawings – A Spanish Dance), p. 36 (not illustrated), n. 11 on Sutro's photographic list (with the mention 300 francs).

Lot Note:

Executed in the late 1890s, this striking work belongs to the celebrated Femmes pyjama series, a group of just 14 watercolors that exemplify Auguste Rodin’s enduring and resolutely modern fascination with the female form.

In each work, the sculptor depicts a single model (likely Mademoiselle

Camillot-Prévost, whom Rodin nicknamed "the little Spanish dancer") in subtly varied poses, her torso serving as the focal point of the composition. As she reveals her body by opening her pyjamas with either hand, she tilts her head from side to side and shifts her weight between her legs in a sinuous, undulating movement. The torso becomes the true subject of each drawing, its pearlescent luminosity contrasting with the dark contours of the garment. Rodin’s remarkable sensitivity to watercolor and delicate line lends depth and subtlety to the rendering of both flesh and drapery. Conceived as a series, these works reflect his interest in the fragmented body, reminiscing his fascination with antique sculpture. Viewed together, their torsos emerge at once, their individual forms merging into a striking visual rhythm.

Distinguished by its large scale and exceptionally beautiful marbled effects, the present work is further notable for its exhibition history. It was among the few drawings from the series exhibited in London in 1901 at the Royal Institute Galleries, as part of an exhibition organized by the Pastel Society at the initiative of British artist Esther Sutro. Its provenance is equally distinguished: the watercolor belonged to Jules E. Mastbaum, the prominent Philadelphia collector and philanthropist whose celebrated collection formed the foundation of the city’s Rodin Museum. This exceptional Philadelphia provenance, combined with the work’s impressive scale and painterly effects, makes it a particularly compelling example of the series. As the Rodin expert and art historian Christina Uribe concludes, it is “undoubtedly one of the finest examples of its kind."

Framed: 26 x 19 x 1 in.

The drawing is in overall good condition. The paper has been laid down to a backing board. The paper is toned and has light, mat and time staining. There are scattered fox marks, the largest in the bottom left. A previous mat was adhered to the paper around the edges and has left paper residue upon removal. Additional images available upon request.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email adriannewolkenberg@freemansauction.com for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.