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Jacob Kramer (Russian, 1892-1962) Self-portrait, circa 1933 signed lower right "Jacob Kramer" and inscribed "Self-portrait - To Ella and George with best wishes from Jacob, 1950" lithograph, signed and inscribed in pencil. 53 x 39cm An outstanding presentation proof of this striking self portrait. No impression of this scarce print is documented in Millie Kramer's volume on Jacob Kramer's work. This penetrating self portrait is amongst the finest of Jacob Kramer's few known lithographs. Born in the Ukraine, he came to England with his family in 1900 and settled in the Jewish community in Leeds. Jacob had already learned the rudiments of painting from his father, who had been a court painter in their homeland of Russia, and the young boy's innate talent was recognised immediately. His artistic development was heavily influenced by his contact with the members of the Vorticist group, with whom he exhibited in 1915, although he did not join them, choosing instead his own artistic path. His mature style can best be described as Expressionist although it reflects the influence of Cubist ideals. A profoundly serious and sensitive man, Kramer instilled into his art a deep sense of religious conviction revolving around the Jewish community in which he lived and worked. He began printmaking in 1916 and, as far as is known, was entirely self-taught in this branch of art. He remained closely associated with the city of Leeds throughout his life and the city has paid tribute to him by naming the Jacob Kramer College of Art in his honour. This lithograph is thought to date from around 1933, although it appears that Kramer dated individual impressions upon presentation to friends. This impression, from the only edition of 30 signed proofs, is inscribed 1950. On smooth cream wove paper, with full margins. Applied to firm card backboard, as prepared by the artist himself.