Natalia Sergueïevna Gontcharova (1881-1962), Cosmic Composition, gouache on paper, 1940’s, 32x20 cm Signed: “N. Gontcharova” lower right Provenance: Vente Drouot, Paris, 18.6.2004  This abstract composition is typical of Goncharova’s practice as an abstract artist in the latter phase of her life. The work relates to an extensive series of compositions, usually in watercolour and gouache, which demonstrated a distinct movement up the composition. The composition of this specific work demonstrates a strong sense of ascent, suggesting a passage from the material to the spiritual, from earth to stars. Goncharova’s work had often, in the past, reflected upon the world of the spirit, but now, in her later years, it became a more pressing subject for artistic exploration and personal contemplation. We are grateful to Dr. Anthony Parton for cataloguing the above work and for offering his opinion, to the best of his knowledge at this point in time, as to their authenticity