Sotheby's, Singapore, March 29, 1997, Lot 119

This work is in good condition overall with the canvas clear and sound. There is indication of light craquelures scattered throughout the painting surface which is consistent with the painting's age but the paint layers are stable and well-preserved. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals some scattered retouching in general (primarily on the top surface) and bottom margin. Framed.
"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."

"Hendra's women are types, not clearly distinguishable individuals and there is ample material for a fascinating discussion of their many roles and meanings. Here we only touch on the most obvious. Hendra's women are nourishing, nursing, mothering beauties, voluptuously busty, their undulating bodies wrapped in bright-colored cloth. Their forms are echoed by the form of papayas, often competing with strutting eggplants and cucumbers. They are young and their long graceful arms. Exaggerating the elegant hand - movements that are so typically Indonesian, contrasting with their thick feet with wide-spaced toes—the feet of villagers and farmers. Whether depicting servants or slightly better-off women, Hendra celebrates female beauty, suppleness and strength, placing his women in nature, as integral parts of it..."

ASTRI WRIGHT, PAINTING THE PEOPLE, MODERN INDONESIAN ART: THREE GENERATIONS OF TRADITION AND CHANGE, 1945-1990, SINGಞAPORE NATIONAL PRINTERS LTD., SINGAPORE, 1990. P.128.