Original sketchbook drawing, graphite, untitled (standing woman), by/attributed to Willem de Kooning (1904-1997). Numbered, upper right corner and signed, lower right. 8 x 4 3/4 inches. Very good condition. Unframed.

SPECIAL LOT NOTE: The de Kooning sketchbook that contained this drawing also contained an additional 9 drawings which are not offered in this sale. Successful bidders for any of the de Kooning drawings will be given an opportunity to purchase the additional 9 drawings privately, after the auction.

Provenance: Arthur P. Gordon, Westchester, NY, Beverly Hills and Encino, California. Thence by descent to the present owner, Mr. Gordon's great nephew, whose family acquired this and other drawings as a gift from Arthur Gordon sometime in the late 1960's or early 1970's.

Arthur Gordon was a long time friend of actress, Greer Garson, whose home he purchased in Encino, California. According to Arthur Gordon's own notes, it was through Garson that he met her close friend, Peggy Guggenheim, the great American art collector and socialite. Mr. Gordon's art collection grew over the years to include works by many American (and some European) modern artists and abstract expressionists.

AUTHENTICATION & PROVENANCE OF ATTRIBUTED LOTS: This lot is being offered as "attributed to" the named artist. We have no specific documentation to prove or disprove its authenticity, nor have we submitted it to any expert or committee of experts for review or forensic examination. Authentication is not an exact science. Contrary opinions may exist. Our opinion is not based on any specific expertise. The signature, style, and composition of the work seem absolutely correct and are similar to pieces of known authenticity and provenance which we have seen or sold, although neither we nor the consignor can guaranty that the present lot is wholly or partly by the ascribed artist. Regarding provenance, we rely to an extent on information provided to us by the consignor, the consignor's agent, family records or documents, estate papers, and/or other third parties. We try to provide whatever information we have available. If you have questions about a lot's provenance, please ask them prior to bidding. Unless stated otherwise, no documents, letters, or additional information concerning provenance will accompany the lot. [Copyright 2013 Preston Hall Gallery]