What Do You See? The Collection of Sidney Rothberg, Part III

Provenance:

Nordness Madison, New York, New York.

Christie's East, New York, sale of November 26, 2001, lot 24.

Acquired directly from the above sale.

Lot Note:

Ruth Gikow was a Jewish-American painter and printmaker known for her expressive, socially engaged works that explored human relationships, identity, and social themes. Born in Ukraine, she immigrated to the United States as a child and later became an important figure in New York’s art scene. Her work blended narrative storytelling with emotive, painterly techniques, often reflecting a deep concern for humanity and justice.

Her 1961 painting, King Solomon and His Wives, offers a richly textured and atmospheric interpretation of the biblical king surrounded by his many wives. Gikow moves beyond traditional depictions, crafting an intimate, almost claustrophobic composition where Solomon appears contemplative or burdened, while his wives encircle him in an array of elaborate headdresses and jewel-toned garments. The figures' varied expressions—some engaged, others detached—suggest a complex interplay of power, devotion, and isolation. Through her soft, blended brushstrokes and muted yet warm palette, Gikow enhances the dreamlike quality of the scene, reinforcing the tension between Solomon’s wisdom and the intricate dynamics of his royal household.