MARTIROS SARYAN (1880-1972) Ashtarak Bridge in the morning, 1951 signed in Cyrillic and Armenian and dated 'M Saryan 1951' (lower left); signed, titled in Cyrillic and Armenian and dated (verso) gouache on paper 53 x 81 cm (view) executed in 1951 PROVENANCE: Private collection, Europe Martiros Saryan was an Armenian painter born in Nakhichevan-on-Don, Russia (now part of Rostov-on-Don). Saryan studied at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture with renowned artists such as Konstantin Korovin and Valentin Serov. Saryan depicts the landscapes, culture and people of Armenia. In 1921, Saryan moved to Yerevan, where he organised and directed the Museum of Archaeology, Ethnography and Fine Arts, now known as the National Gallery of Armenia. Painted in 1951, 'Ashtarak Bridge in the Morning' is a serene and picturesque depiction of a historic monument in Armenia. The Ashtarak Bridge, dating from the 17th century, spans the River Kasagh and is one of the town's most remarkable landmarks. Situated in the gorge just below the church of Saint Sarkis, the bridge was built in 1664 thanks to the efforts of Mahdesi Khoja Grigor, a wealthy merchant from Kanaker. The bridge has three arches of unequal size. Saryan was greatly influenced by Impressionism and artists such as Matisse in his use of flat, simplified areas of colour. In this painting, Saryan's depiction highlights his masterful use of colour and light. Ashtarak Bridge in the Morning" is a masterpiece by one of Armenia's greatest artists. At the buyer's request, we are happy to provide a general condition report for the lot described above. However, as we are not professional conservators or restorers, we strongly advise prospective buyers to carry out their own inspection or to consult a specialist or conservator of their choice for a full professional assessment. Descriptions of the condition of objects in the catalogue or in any correspondence are given for guidance only and should not be regarded as a substitute for a first-hand valuation. ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD 'AS IS' IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE PUBLISHED IN THE CATALOGUE