Ger van Elk, Missing Persons: Conversation Piece, 1976

Diptych, two chromogenic prints, mounted on board, each 55.2 x 71.8 cm, board 64.5 x 85 cm. From an edition of 45 plus 10 artist proofs, this copy is hors serie, signed G. van Elk, titled, dated 1977, and dedicated 'voor Dhr. Augustijn' in pencil on recto. Both prints with label affixed to verso of the cardboard framing plate, indicating provenance from the collection of Henk Peeters. Formerly framed, water stains on borders of both copies, not impacting the images.

Striking piece by Dutch conceptual artist Ger van Elk (1941-2014), known for his realistic depiction of (often humorous) unrealistic situations. The photographs and reproduced drawings feature a group of formally-attired men engaged in a solemn meeting in a parlour setting, yet one person has disappeared from his lounge chair, seemingly unnoticed by the men. The work alludes to manipulated photographs by dictatorial regimes, expunging people from official history.