A Small Igor Shulman Study Discovered at a Local Auction
An unknown artist, a small colourful study and an unexpected discovery.
Sometimes a work of art finds its next owner before its story is fully known.
Peter, a collector based in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, came across this small study at a local house-clearance auction. He did not know who the artist was when he placed his bid. He was simply drawn to the composition and its colours.
Only after purchasing the work did Peter begin researching the signature and discover the Igor Shulman Art Archive.
A small work on paper
The study shows a female nude viewed from behind, painted in a narrow vertical format. Warm ochre, yellow and green tones define the figure against a pale blue background. The loose handling of colour gives the small composition a sense of movement.
The work measures approximately 9 × 27 cm and is framed. It is signed and dated 2004. The signature appears similar to examples from that period, although the work’s authenticity has not been independently established. Its materials and history also remain to be confirmed.
Peter has no information about the work’s earlier ownership or how it came to be sold at the auction.
Woman Nude Study
A place on the wall
Despite the unanswered questions, Peter’s response to the work is straightforward. He liked it enough to make space for it on his office wall.
His discovery is a reminder that artworks can remain outside an artist’s documented catalogue for years, occasionally resurfacing through private ownership and local auctions.
The Igor Shulman Art Archive welcomes information about previously undocumented works. Stories, photographs and details of provenance can help build a more complete record of the artist’s work.
With thanks to Peter for sharing the photographs and allowing us to feature his discovery.
