Lot 43
ALEXANDER COLVILLE
Additional Images
Provenance:
Prominent Canadian Corporate Collection
Note:
Colville often approached his portraits obliquely, inserting an obfuscating detail to block out the more literal aspects of a scene. The effect of a mis-framed photograph or an outtake in the family album is mitigated by Colville’s masterful harmonization of his compositions. The artist’s renowned sense of geometry here takes precedence over the more human aspects, as if the boater got in the way of a portrait of the buoy, rather than vice versa.
Another particularly Colvillian detail is, in the works of writer and curator Ray Cronin, the artist’s presentation of “a situation in which order and chaos are equal possibilities.” It slowly dawns on the viewer that the light on the buoy is out, rendering it largely useless for its intended purpose--navigation. The title of the piece can be viewed with irony, as a man-made attempt to conquer the wild ocean, to impose order on our surroundings, fails to live up to expectations.
CONDITION DETAILS
The work appears to be in excellent condition with no visible issues to report. Please note this work has not been examined out of the frame.
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and mandated government restrictions, Waddington’s regrets that we are unable to make lots from this auction available for pre-auction, in-person inspection. This condition report has been prepared by Waddington’s as a courtesy and has been provided for guidance only. The Lot is offered in the condition it is in at the time of sale. Any reference to condition in the report for the Lot does not amount to a full description of condition. The images of the Lot form part of the condition report for the Lot provided by Waddington’s. Please note, certain images of the Lot provided online may not accurately reflect the actual condition of the Lot and may represent colours and shades which are different to the Lot’s actual colour and shades. Waddington’s specialists are not professional conservators or restorers and the report set forth is a statement of opinion genuinely held by Waddington’s. Prospective buyers should bear in mind that this report will not disclose any imperfections which may only be revealed during the course of subsequent restoration. Buyers are reminded that Waddington’s warranties with respect to any property are limited as set forth in the Conditions of Sale and do not extend to condition.