Lot 96: Theofrastos Triantafyllidis (Greek 1881-1955)

Ballet
signed in greek (lower right)
oil on canvas
43.5 x 54.5 cm. (17 1/8 x 21 1/2 in.)

Painted c.1940-45

Provenance:
Private collection, Athens

Literature:
Antonis Kotidis, Triantafyllidis, University Studio Press, Thessaloniki 2002, No 190, p. 271 (illustrated)

A founding member of the "Omada Techni" (Art Group) in 1917, whose objective was to overthrow the academic teachings of the past, Triantafyllides was interested in a broad range of themes, which he handled in a variety of styles. Dating from 1940-45, during the artist's later years, the present picture of dancers practicing their steps recalls the works of Degas. With a muted palette, he has attempted to convey the arduous training of the young girls, avoiding to depict facial features, preferring to focus instead on the figures and their physical activities.

Lot Notice:
This lot is illustrated in the book Triantafyllidis, by Antonis Kotidis, University Press, Thessaloniki 2002, no. 190, p.271.