?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price
Estimate: $ 2,000 - $ 3,000
WILLIAM SOMMER (1867-1949) BAL-MASQE. 1917. 46 1/4x31 1/2 inches, 117 1/2x80 cm. Condition B+: repaired tears and restoration in image and along vertical and horizontal folds; unevenly trimmed margins and unevenly rounded corners. "The Kokoon Arts Club was one of Cleveland's most active artists' organizations between 1911-40, largely known for its unconventional activities and espousal of 'new art.' Founded in 1911 by Carl Moellman and William Sommer, the club was based on avant-garde artists' organizations in New York that sought new forms of artistic expression as alternatives to the conformity of academic art. The Kokoon Club was selective in its membership, for many years refusing to admit women. The Kokoon Club's reputation was founded largely on its annual 'Bal Masque,' first held in 1913. Future Kokoon Club balls became celebrations of Cleveland's bohemian community, featuring unconventional costumes, exotic dances, opening processions, enormous props and clashing decorations, and unpredictable 'stunts' throughout. As 'new art' became more acceptable, it lost some of its original intellectualism and became more of a social organization. With the Depression, the club began a slow but steady decline. The last 'Bal Masque' was held in 1946, although the club managed to hold together with a dwindling membership for at least 10 more years." (The Encyclopedia of Cleveland History).
