Untitled #175

David Authier (1937 – 1988, American) Untitled #175 (1980) Large multi-color abstract oil painting on paper. The work of art measures 44.5 x 29.5 inches and has been double matted with linen and fillet in a 1.75-inch black frame with plexi for a total measurement of 56.5 x 41.5 inches. The piece is from Le Mondrian Hotel art collection. (The Mondrian was one of the luxury Los Angeles area hotels owned by Ashkenazy Enterprises in the mid-1980’s.) According to the gallery label on the verso, the work of art was acquired in 1984 directly from the artist and is hand signed, but the piece has not been examined outside the frame, so likely it is on the back of the painting.

According to a JULY 16, 1989 Los Angeles Times newspaper article by DAVID COLKER, brothers, Arnold and Severyn Ashkenazy acquired artwork through bartering with artists, dealers and auction houses in exchange for providing luxury accommodations, limousine service, and fine dining in their restaurants. They placed the art in their hotels, providing the artists with exposure of the work to a wealthy clientele in a relaxed setting. Paintings and prints were placed on walls in the lobbies, suites, corridors, function rooms, restaurants, bars and bathrooms. But in addition to being the décor, the Ashkenazy business operation offered all of the art on display for sale.