Lot 12 | Auction XVI

LOT 12

KHALIL IBRAHIM
(B. Kelantan, 1934)

Bali Nude Series, 2006

Signed and dated
“Khalil Ibrahim 2006” on lower right
Watercolour on paper
30 x 21 cm

Provenance
Private Collection, Kuala Lumpur

SOLD – RM 2,120

Having held a fascination for the nude human body, Khalil Ibrahim paints figures in different poses, each showcasing the contours, shapes and lines of the nude body. The affection and admiration he has for women is showcased here, as he employs his flair in watercolour to highlight the soft curves, gentle shapes and crevices of the female body.

His subjects are undeniable heavier than the ones he was used to during his time in art school, but he paints them here in thicker, fuller forms and only focusing on the lower half to create a little mystery, so as to not take the focus away from the subject matter. The angles are different for each lady, which hints at the message of the piece – that no matter how differently they are positioned, the female body is definitely a masterpiece on its own.