Lot 47 | 7 February 2021

 

 

LOT 47

MOHD HOESSEIN ENAS, DATO’

B. Indonesia, 1924 – 1995

East Coast Girl, 1985

Signed and dated “Hoessein Enas 85” on lower left

Oil on canvas

40.5 x 30.5 cm

Private Collection, Kuala Lumpur

RM 55,000 – RM 75,000

Famously known as the Father of Portraits in Malaysia, Dato Mohammed Hoessein Enas was born in Bogor, Indonesia in 1924. He migrated to Malaysia in 1947 to escape the aftermath of the Indonesian National Revolution. From 1960-1990, he received many awards including the UNESCO Fellowship Award Winner in Art and Selangor Royal Portrait Artist. His works have been exhibited in various notable exhibitions in Kuala Lumpur, Paris, Hong Kong and Singapore.

All his portraits exude an emphasis on culture whether it’s in the actions of his subject, their clothes or their livelihood. The East Coast Girl shows a shy expression from the subject while the vibrant use of colours on her clothes and headpiece suggests enthusiasm and positivity.