Johan Coenraad Altorf | Johan Coenraad Altorf (the Haque 1876-1955), 'sick monkey', ca. 1935

A relief depicting some monkeys (oak wood 40x 24.8 cm).

By Pier Terwen

The sculptor Johan Coenraad Altorf (1876-1955), produced subjects in relief, always carved in very fine, high-quality oak, especially in the period just before the Second World War. He often chose animal subjects. Representations with Civic coats of arms, comemorative objects and depictions of saints are also found but less frequently. Altorf was often to be seen in the Hague zoo, where he studied the animals and was inspired to apply them in his work. He always used a highly abstract approach to this portrayal. In a number of cases he made carved panels for furniture. The furniture was initially made by himself, but later it was designed by the architect A.J. Kropholler (1881-1973) who lived in Wassenaar.[1] The smaller individual panels can certainly be seen as an important addition to the sculptor's income during the 'lean years' preceding the Second World War. The representations had a strongly illustrative character and the subjects were often contained in a low border. The images were often projected slightly over the border, a visual trick that creates a feeling of depth. In fact, it was a device that we can already see in early Egyptian reliefs.[2] The panels were often sold by the Hague art dealer Nieuwenhuizen Segaar, where they remained in stock until after the war. These small panels also display how extremely expertly they have been executed. And the composition of the scenes is often endearing, such as the group of monkeys crouching together on this panel.

[1] The furniture designed by Kropholler was assembled by third parties; the panels were placed in the construction of the furniture by the furniture maker.

[2] Altorf liked to visit the National Museum of Antiquities in Leiden for the Egyptian sculptures and classical and.

A carved wooden relief depicting three monkeys, the middle monkey appearing ill and being comforted by the other two. Signed with the Altorf monogram in the right hand side along the edge. In early family correspondence this piece is referred to as the panel titled 't zieke aapje' (the sick monkey).

A carved wooden panel 'the sick monkey', ca. 1930, Netherlands

Condition Note

mint

Origin and period

By repute this piece was bought directly from the artist in the 1930's and was passed down through the family to the current owner by descent.