Wlastimil HOFMAN (1881 - 1970), Self-portrait against the Sea, 1942

oil, plywood; 34 x 30 cm;
Signed, dated and inscribed l. d.: Wlastimil / Hofman/ Jerusalem 1942
On the back Ex libris by Dr. Leon Koczy

Provenance:
private collection, Poland

"The years 1941-1945 Ada and Wlastimil Hofman, like many Poles, spent in exile in Palestine. In the fall and winter of late 1944 and early 1945, they lived in Nazareth." - The historical context in which the work in question was created is extremely important for its reception. The self-portrait from the time of wartime exile is distinguished by the austerity of the motif, without additional staffage. The steel sky almost fills the background of the work, on the horizon line it is combined only with a slightly agitated sea. The artist took care to render his image faithfully. The poignant gaze directed into the distance, may signify a longing for his homeland. The motif of a self-portrait in Wlastimil Hofman's work is not only a registration of the artist's appearance, but also a record of his spiritual struggles and experiences. In the case of the 1942 work, it becomes a testimony to his wartime wanderings, his rifts and reflections on his fate - which is why its artistic and collector's value is particularly high.
It is interesting that on the back of the painting is preserved Ex libris of Dr. Leon Koczy - historian - medievalist, collector. This kind of provenance trace increases the documentary value and credibility of the work.

Bibliography:
In Szklarska Poreba all roads lead to Wlastimilowka. Year of Wlastimil Hofman, edited by B. Danielska, Ad REM Regina Christian Publishing House, Szklarska Poreba 2017.