Hovsep Pushman (American, 1877-1966). Symphony of Life. Oil and gold leaf on panel. 34-1/2 x 25 inches (87.6 x 63.5 cm)...

Description

Hovsep Pushman (American, 1877-1966)
Symphony of Life
Oil and gold leaf on panel
34-1/2 x 25 inches (87.6 x 63.5 cm)
Signed lower left: Pushman

PROVENANCE:
The Johnson Galleries, Chicago, Illinois;
Irene Korhumel, acquired from the above, 1956;
Estate of the above;
Christies, New York, May 18, 2011, lot 85;
Private collection, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

EXHIBITED:
The Johnson Galleries, Chicago, Illinois, "An Exhibition of Paintings by Hovsep Pushman," April 14-May 12, 1956, no. 4;
International Galleries, Chicago, Illinois, "An Exhibition of Paintings by Hovsep Pushman," April 29-May 21, 1960, no. 13.

LITERATURE:
The Johnson Galleries, An Exhibition of Paintings by Hovsep Pushman, exhibition checklist, Chicago, Illinois, 1956, n.p., no. 4.

Hovsep Pushman's Symphony of Life reveals the artist's enduring preoccupation with the interplay between the material and the metaphysical. Known for his serene still lifes that fuse East Asian iconography with Western formalism, Pushman here stages a refined meditation on spiritual duality and aesthetic transcendence. His distinctive application of oil and gold leaf on panel gives the composition a rich tactility, amplifying the quiet force of his carefully selected objects.

In Symphony of Life, Pushman expands the scope of his quiet theatricality. A solitary porcelain female figure is placed before a spectral mural of a larger-than-life deity or guardian spirit, rendered in faint yet vivid tones, as if hovering between presence and memory. This doubling-the tangible figurine in the foreground and the spiritual echo in the background-constitutes a visual and philosophical dialogue between the material and the transcendental. The painting's title encourages this interpretation, inviting us to see the composition not as static but as rhythmically alive. Pushman's restrained palette, punctuated by the delicately colored robes and reflective porcelain, orchestrates a subtle harmony of tone and texture. Once again, the gold leaf is not merely decorative; it signifies the eternal, infusing the composition with a divine hum that transcends the physical confines of the depicted objects.

As with many of Pushman's mature works, the painting can also be read through the lens of Orientalism. While drawing heavily on East Asian motifs, Pushman avoids exotic spectacle and instead positions these objects within an introspective spiritual framework. The interplay between cultural admiration and aesthetic reinterpretation is palpable-prompting viewers to consider how Pushman's diasporic identity and international training shaped his reverent yet stylized engagement with Asian artifacts.

Symphony of Life thus emerges as more than a still life-it is an allegorical composition alive with spiritual resonance and aesthetic balance. Through the interplay of object and apparition, substance and shadow, Pushman creates a work that hums with contemplative energy, offering viewers not just a visual experience but a philosophical journey into the unseen dimensions of beauty and belief.

The present work is included in the virtual catalogue raisonné of the artist's work as number HP00750 (No. 605).


More information about Hovsep Pushman. See also: Pushman, Hovsep, Pushman, Hovsep T, Pushman, Hovsep T. Artist.



*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.