Oil on canvas. Monogrammed and dated in the lower left corner. Inscribed “Hamburg” on the reverse of the canvas. 100.2 x 65.1 cm. . [AW].
- Hofer's portraits of enigmatic women are among the artist's most compelling creations. - Exhibited during the artist's lifetime in 1953. - Subtly balanced colors in Karl Hofer's typically minimalist style. - Formerly part of the collection of Walter Farmer (1911-1997), “Monuments Man” and director of the Central Collecting Point in Wiesbaden. - Part of the same private collection for 50 years.
LITERATURE: Karl Bernhard Wohlert (ed.), Markus Eisenbeis (ed.), Karl Hofer. Catalogue raisonné of paintings, vol. 3, Cologne 2007, catalog no. 2579 (illustrated in black-and-white). - Kunsthaus Lempertz, Cologne, 549th auction, December 5, 1975, lot 327 (illustrated in black and white on plate 9). The Annual Art Sales Index, 1975/76, p. 372.

Karl Hofer anlässlich seines 75. Geburtstages, Hochschule für bildende Künste, Berlin, Sep. 12-Oct. 15, 1953, cat. no. 180 (“Lesendes Mädchen” [Girl Reading], with the exhibition label on the reverse of the stretcher). Modern Art in Revolution 1900-1956, Cincinnati Art Museum, Ohio, May 19-June 17, 1956 (with the exhibition label on the reverse of the stretcher)

Walter Farmer and Renate Hobkirk Collection, Cincinnati (acquired from the artist in 1953/54). Renate Hobkirk Collection, Spain/Germany (1960s). Private collection, Canada (acquired from the above in 1975)

In good condition, colors in fine impression. Stretcher slightly pushing through along the lower edge. Outer edges partly slightly rubbed. Craquelure in places, white areas with slight flaking. A few barely noticeable small stains in the center of the image. Small professional retouching in the lower right area of the painting. The condition report was compiled in daylight and with the aid of a UV light source to the best of our knowledge and belief.