Done at the end of the First World War, this is one of Fernando Amorsolo’s earliest known works. The art of the portrait would be one of the Maestro’s strengths, making him one of the most sought-after painters of the rich and famous of Manila. In this early exercise, Amorsolo captures the very soul of a gentle violinist—his years of artistry and grace clearly expressed in his dignified face. He is the epitome of the teacher and mentor, the wise man who guides us in the quest for knowledge and rationality. The sage is acutely aware of everything around him, as he looks obliquely from the pictorial frame. It seems that he is ready to tell the tale of an important life lesson. Here, one again, Amorsolo creates a portrait of a gentle but knowing soul.
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Fernando Amorsolo (1892 - 1972)
Retrato de Un Viejo Violinista
signed and dated 1918 (lower right)
oil on canvas
19 1/2” x 13 1/2” (49.5 cm x 34 cm)
SOLD: PHP 3,680,000
Leon Gallery wishes to thank Mrs. Sylvia Amorsolo-Lazo for confirming the authenticity of this lot
Literature: Literature: Roces, Alfredo. Amorsolo. Filipinas Foundation Publishing, Manila. 1975. p.52.