Lot 103: The road to Gethsemani

Jan Verkade (1868-1946) The road to Gethsemani signed 'Verkade' (lower left) oil on canvas laid down on panel 23 x 33 cm. Painted circa 1909-10

23 x 33 cm.

circa 1909

On 27 March 1909 Jan Verkade sets off for Jerusalem, where he was sent to the Sions monastery 'Maria Heimgang', which was taken over by the congregation of Beuron. His work in Jerusalem can be divided into three groups: the decoration of churches, small paintings and drawings and his literary work. Verkade thought he had developed himself in Palestina, independant of the school of Beuron, in a more personal way. Unfortunately most of the work made here should be considered lost. From the remaining works one can see the colours are more restrained than during his München period. Trees and walls are put in clear, simple contrasts. Variations of brown, green and violet tones form a dense concentrated connection. (Caroline Boyle-Turner, Jan Verkade. Hollandse volgeling van Gauguin, Zwolle 1989, pp. 57-58). The authenticity of the present lot has been confirmed by Dr. Fred Leeman.