Mencari Kutu (Catching flea)

The present work is the earliest dated work offered in the present catalogue. Comparing to the other offered works, the subdued tone of Mencari Kutu is evident. Composition is always a measurement of an artist's quality. While Hendra certainly has an unique way of finding an order in the arrangement of multiple characters and happenings occurring simultaneously, the present work typifies the artist's treatment of a 'quiet scene'. Unlike the Mother and child which is also a depiction of a quiet scene, the present lot is not endowed with a majestic landscape as background. On the whole, the work is simply presented.

The emphasis is solely on the characters depicted. To this effect, the composition are measured carefully. Half of the composition highlighted the graceful curve of arm holding on to the long strand of hair. The elegance lies in its simplicity and at the same time, corresponding to the femininity of the presented subject.