82

HANS HOFMANN

American/German, 1880-1966

"Girl in Blue", 1938

oil on plywood
initialed lower right "HH", titled on the reverse, estate stamped on the reverse
30 x 24 in. (76.2 x 61 cm.), Frame: 37 x 31 x 2 1/4 in. (94 x 78.7 x 5.7 cm.)

  • Provenance: Andre Emmerich, New York, New York; Ollendorff Fine Arts, New York and San Francisco; Evelyn Aimis Fine Art, Delray Beach Florida, 1999; Private Collection, Maryland, 2006
  • Literature: Suzi Villiger, "Hans Hoffmann Catalogue Raisonne of Paintings, Vol II", (London, England: Lund Humphries Publishers Ltd., 2014), p. 120
  • Notes: Hofmann catalog number 890-1938; Hofmann estate number M-573
    Hans Hofmann's "Girl in Blue" (1938) is a seminal work that captures a pivotal moment in the artist's prolific career, marking his transition from the established traditions of European modernism to his groundbreaking role as a leading figure in American Abstract Expressionism. This compelling oil on plywood painting, created shortly after Hofmann immigrated to the United States, vividly reflects his profound understanding and innovative application of color theory and spatial tension—qualities that would become the defining characteristics of his mature artistic style.
    While the subject matter of "Girl in Blue" is representational, the painting pulsates with the inherent energy of abstraction. Hofmann employs bold, expressive brushwork and a rich, vibrant palette to evoke an intense emotionality rather than a mere literal depiction of form. The dynamic interplay of color planes and the rhythmic composition within the painting clearly reveal his deep study of both Fauvism, with its emphasis on strong color and bold brushstrokes, and Cubism, with its fractured planes and multiple perspectives. These revolutionary European movements profoundly shaped Hofmann's artistic language and provided the foundational elements for his later explorations. Created during his formative early years in the United States, "Girl in Blue" serves as a crucial bridge between Hofmann's European artistic roots and his subsequent, profound contributions as an influential teacher and theorist of modern art. His teachings at his art schools in New York City and Provincetown, Massachusetts, significantly impacted a generation of American artists, and his theories, particularly his concept of "push and pull," revolutionized how artists thought about pictorial space and color.
    With its striking balance of carefully considered structure and spontaneous, intuitive execution, "Girl in Blue" stands as an eloquent and enduring testament to Hofmann's lifelong artistic pursuit. This pursuit was centered on exploring the complex and dynamic relationship—the "push and pull"—between color, space, and emotion, ultimately leading him to pioneer a new language for abstraction that would profoundly influence the trajectory of 20th-century art. The painting not only showcases Hofmann's technical mastery but also his intellectual rigor and his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.
  • Condition: in excellent overall condition; on small spot of restoration visible under UV

    CONDITION REPORTS FOR THE AUCTION ARE AVAILABLE BY REQUEST. PLEASE CONTACT US FOR A CONDITION REPORT ON THIS LOT. THE ABSENCE OF A CONDITION REPORT OR THE ABSENCE OF A REFERENCE TO DAMAGE DOES NOT IMPLY THAT THE LOT IS IN GOOD CONDITION OR FREE FROM RESTORATION OR REPAIR.

    We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Shannon’s is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Frames on all paintings are sold "As Is". Frames may need some conservation. 
    NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE. 

Accepted Forms of Payment:

ACH, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

As a convenience to the Buyer, Shannon's LLC will make a referral for packing and shipping. For a preliminary quote you may contact Jeff Von Flatern at [email protected] or 203-453-8866, Levi Shmulsky at [email protected] or (860) 561-1369, or Kristen Vineyard at Village Express [email protected] or 203-481-7426.

Shipping is at the request, expense, and risk of the Buyer, and Shannon's assumes no responsibility for the items or the timing of delivery. Insurance for in transit items is the responsibility of the buyer.

October 30, 2025 6:00 PM EDT
Milford, CT, US

Shannon's

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 27% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000