Private Collection, Waalre, acquired directly from the artist and
thence by descent

Ostend, Provinciaal Museum voor Moderne Kunst, Retrospectieve Permeke, December 1986 - March 1987, no. 201, illustrated in colour
 

W. van den Bussche, Permeke 1886-1952, Jabbeke 1993, no. 66, illustrated in colour

This work is in very good condition. Some loss of plaster is visible at the top of the base at the reverse. The lower edges of the base are slightly worn as can be seen on the catalogue illustration. There is some surface dust.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Permeke attended the Biennale of Venice in 1934 where he received the first official international recognition for his works of art. In 1937 Constant started creating sculptures for the first time. Torso, conceived in 1938, is one of the most remarkable pieces of this first period. The monumental aspect of his work in painting and drawing was one of the main reasons he became a sculptor. As a sculptor, Constant had the opportunity to isolate the human figure in his work. The new medium created endless possibilities, it became a real passion for Permeke. The artist's evolution in making the sculpture starts with an almost formless mass, which leads to an ever-increasing elegant figure. In Torso the serenity and gracefulness are characteristic and monumental at the same time.