Lot 188 Nα

Kandinsky's drawings prove that he was not only a highly gifted painter but that he also had outstanding drawing skills. Despite its similarity to the composition of the painting, his drawing for “Accent rond” seems perfectly self-contained and not at all like a simple draft. One characteristic feature is the special nature of open space, which is never more than implicit - space which either integrates emptiness or is consciously used as in-between or free space. Its purpose is to spread or condense elements within the scene, while at the same time presenting a balanced ratio of powers in the face of some tangible central tension. The composition - two shapes arranged in a semicircle, antithetically confronting each other in a virtual field of force - shows not only a certain rivalry but also an increase in energy. Yet the delicate sensitivity and precision of the lines remains clearly visible. The confrontation of two halves and thus the synthesis of two conflicting and divided forces is a frequent occurrence in Kandinsky's later works in Paris. Yet the basic elements of the drawing - dots, lines and planes - follow a very precise syntax which is typical of Kandinsky.