Mother (Anyósom)
Oil painting on canvas or panel • Attributed to Jenő Újvári (1893-1951), based on the signature 'Újvári' and Hungarian inscription
Style & Movement
Late Post-Impressionism / Central European Realism
Medium & Technique
Oil on support with visible impasto and wet-on-wet brushwork
Creation Period
1950 (specifically August, as indicated by 'VIII')
Dimensions & Format
Estimated medium-sized portrait format (rectilinear)
Subject Description
A portrait or domestic scene likely depicting the artist's mother-in-law, as 'Anyósom' translates to 'my mother-in-law' in Hungarian. The composition features heavy, earthy tones and expressive brushwork.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair/Poor; significant surface grime, paint loss, and structural wear are evident in the detail image
Estimated Market Value
$500 - $1,200 (subject to cleaning and full identification)
Auction Estimate
$400 - $800
Provenance History
Likely private collection in Hungary; presence of personal inscriptions suggests a family-held or studio piece
Art Historical Significance
Representative of mid-century Hungarian realism and family portraiture during a period of transition towards Socialist Realism
Notable Features
Dual inscription in red/brown paint: 'Anyósom 1950 VIII' and the artist's signature 'Újvári'. The handwriting style and use of Roman numerals for months are typical of mid-20th century European customs.
Condition Issues
Flaking paint, surface abrasions, heavy accumulation of dust/grime, and possible craquelure; the lower edge shows physical wear to the support
Conservation Recommendations
Professional surface cleaning, stabilization of flaking paint layers, and varnishing; display in controlled humidity away from direct sunlight